As part of the CSU STEM VISTA program, twenty-four AmeriCorps Summer Associates committed to 9 weeks of service at 8 CSU campuses – Bakersfield, Fresno, Monterey Bay, Pomona, San Marcos, San Diego, San Luis Obispo and Stanislaus. Summer Associates prepared over 550 virtual incoming students through advising, tutoring, online orientation, laptop and book distribution, and mentorship. From direct phone calls to personalized email responses, Summer Associates provided intentional support for transitioning to college life during a pandemic. Summer Associates also utilized their marketing skills to create online workshops on health and tips for academic success, department videos, brochures and website updates to better assist students with navigating campus resources. They also created online materials focused on STEM activities to be utilized by local teachers.
Twenty-four Summer Associates combined with nine weeks of service on eight CSU campuses – the final outcome…a tremendous and lasting impact!