UH-Hilo S-STEM Program Receives $622K Grant

High school students interested in studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics, more commonly referred to as STEM, at the University of Hawai’i at Hilo may now have a new way to get assistance in funding their education.

The National Science Foundation recently awarded UH-Hilo with a $622,175 grant to support scholarships for the Scholarships for STEM Program for students interested in STEM fields.

UH-Hilo’s new S-STEM Program is geared toward high school seniors who are academically talented, economically disadvantaged, and who plan on majoring in a STEM discipline, including astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, geology, marine science, mathematics, and physics.

“The S-STEM Program will provide much needed support of our deserving students who have demonstrated academic potential, but due to financial difficulties might not be able to consider a college degree. We are excited to be able to help our talented youth, and enable them to pursue meaningful careers in STEM here in Hawai’i,” said Dr. Raina Ivanova, professor of mathematics, principal investigator, and director of the S-STEM Program.

Scholars will be awarded a $20,000 scholarship, up to $5,000 a year, for four years of undergraduate studies at UH-Hilo. Students must maintain good academic standing and continue their progress towards a STEM major.

Awards will be given based on student academic potential, motivation, and interest in STEM discipline. These qualifications will be based on the applicant’s high school GPA, standardized test scores, a letter of interest, and reference letters.

Scholarship applications are due by April 15.

For more information or to apply, visit UH-Hilo’s STEM Program website.