SHAUNA LEONARDO & SETH LUTSIC

CSU Monterey Bay Science Student Success

BECAUSE I’M A CSU STEM VISTA…

Being a CSU STEM VISTA has given me several learning opportunities.

For example, I have never had to implement and support a new program, and I have had the chance to do so here with the Science Student Success Program (S3). I have developed skills which include capacity-building, networking, marketing techniques, project expansion, project management and website improvement. Being a CSU STEM VISTA has also taught me to take ownership and pride in my work: I am really grateful for this opportunity because I will take these skills with me as I enter graduate school and
my future career.

My Favorite Part of CSU STEM VISTA

I’ve certainly been fortunate to connect with CSU STEM VISTAs at multiple retreats.

Almost every two months, these retreats have taken place somewhere across California. More specifically, they’ve been in Big Bear, Long Beach and Oakland. Later this month, I’ll meet with CSU STEM VISTAs in San Jose. I’m excited to hear what’s been happening in their lives since the last check-in a few weeks ago. Ultimately, the CSU STEM VISTA Program has exceeded my expectations, especially as I consider the retreats with CSU STEM VISTAs.

My Typical Work Day

My responsibilities vary on a day-to-day basis. I’ve been focusing my attention on two core initiatives: the Science Internship Program (SIP) and Science Student Success Program (S3).

SIP builds connections with organizations so students are able to serve as volunteers, interns or employees. Students have the option to receive academic credit. When they enroll in an internship class, they’ll be able to gain one or two academic credits based on the time commitment. S3 forms a cohort-structured community with the aim to ensure students have a support network. From feedback surveys, it’s been an important component to attain academic success.

Why I Chose My Campus

The small campus size and close-knit atmosphere make CSU Monterey Bay a unique site.

Across CSUMB, people work together, fostering a strong sense of community. CSUMB stood out because of the project description, which includes an academic cohort initiative which supports the success of underserved students in the sciences. I understand the difficulty of transitioning from high school to college, and I wanted to provide students the support to navigate the CSU System. Initially, I was nervous about moving to a new environment, but my team has supported me throughout my service year and has enabled me to impact change.

Why I Serve with CSU STEM VISTA

Throughout my time in college as a science major, I was exposed to the importance of giving back to my local community, which includes engaging with community members, volunteering my time and learning more about the community as a whole.

Due to my experiences as an undergraduate, I determined that I wanted to effect change in the sciences and increase STEM accessibility to people of all backgrounds. I then decided that the CSU STEM VISTA program, whose vision is to “eliminate race, class and gender disparities in STEM,” would be the best fit for my goals.

One Moment That Stands Out

Since early July 2019, I’ve attended retreats with CSU STEM VISTAs. While at these retreats, I bonded with my fellow VISTAs, who’ve been placed in STEM initiatives across the CSU system.

I learned about different theories that I could use to understand the context of the educational landscape I work in. I considered my influence in terms of my relationships and connections with others. I drew on my values, interests and goals in discussions with VISTAs. I have learned more about the other CSU STEM VISTAs, their efforts and how my work aims to eliminate disparities in STEM education.

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