STEM: Beyond Boundaries

Project aims:

This is a new scheme launching within the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences. It is led by Dr Houry Melkonian and supported by the College Associate Dean of Education Prof. Nicola King, which aims at encouraging collaboration between University of Exeter students and the society including schools and colleges. This collaboration will be in the form of monthly ‘STEM Days’ which are gatherings for young female students in schools or colleges to meet up with our female students who are studying for a university level STEM degree. The primary goal of this project is to overcome challenges (i.e. stereotypes, and other psychological factors) that are at the heart of the reasons that may discourage students, in particular girls, from pursuing STEM pathways in early school ages.

This is going to be a platform which advocates diversity and inclusivity in sciences and encourages the adaptation of a growth mindset by presenting facts, sharing examples and research experiences of our female students, and showcasing stories of role models in the field.