The Summer Engineering Experience for Detroit Area Youth is a powerful program that engages underrepresented students in grades 9, 10 and 11 in residencies on university campuses. We are exposing youth who come from disadvantaged backgrounds to nanotechnology, renewable energy, robotics, computer programming, chemical engineering and much more. Coursework is hands-on and leaves a lasting impression that science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) is fun, accessible and is the foundation for successful futures.

Your support will allow two Detroit female youth the life-changing opportunity to attend a one-week summer residential program at the University of Detroit Mercy. The funding includes all coursework, transportation, meals, boarding and field trips. Your support gives two girls the opportunity to beat the Detroit high school graduation and college matriculation odds by giving them an educational edge and igniting the passion to succeed.

Socioeconomic and educational challenges abound in Detroit, making it increasingly difficult for our youth to succeed. According to the 2011 Annual Education Report, 68% of Detroit Public Schools have Title 1 status, meaning that these schools have a high concentration of economically disadvantaged students. Research shows that such high concentrations of poverty is directly related to lower levels of achievement, so it is no surprise that 66% of Detroit Public Schools did not meet Annual Yearly Progress and that the graduation rate is just 37.5%. It is crucial for DAPCEP to expand its capacity to turn those figures around and service more youth in advanced STEM programming that offers exposure to unique opportunities. We are deeply committed to our community and education is the key.

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Direct Impact of Your Project

This funding allows for a powerful and positive impact on the life of two Detroit female youth. We are able to give that students an experience that will expose them to college life and exciting science and engineering fields; encourage high school graduation and matriculation in college; and promote self-confidence in moving forward in life and valuing education.

The funds cover the following for two students:
Room and board ~ $500
Faculty ~ $1,000
Transportation ~ $400
Supplies ~ $100

Extended Impact on Your Partner Community

The girls who go through this summer program experience will bring the excitement and motivation home. The majority of DAPCEP participants also have siblings in the program. Thus, by having a student set the example for his or her family, it promotes a dedication to education within the whole family. The high school aged student sent off to college for summer sets the example for younger siblings who may still be struggling in school and need the support of a sibling role model. Furthermore, it strengthens the parents’ ability to support their child. DAPCEP addresses the whole family and encourages a level of parental involvement that will remain with the student throughout his or her educational and professional career.