AMLE has teamed up with American Student Assistance to offer a monthly Career Connections Corner to share exciting and relevant research, resources, and case studies on career exploration in the middle grades. This month, we’re featuring a new study that highlights the positive impact of youth mentoring on increasing minority students’ interest in STEM and higher education.
During a year-long project, middle and high school students from Sunnyside Unified School District in Tucson worked alongside faculty, graduate and undergraduate students from University of Arizona College of Geography, Development and the Environment, near-peer mentors, and STEM professionals. Through the experience, students learned and applied geospatial technology and analysis to examine green infrastructure inequities in local parks—presenting their findings and ideas to community leaders.
The impact of this inspiring project was recently published in the Journal of STEM Outreach:
- Increased confidence in STEM skills and leadership
- Stronger connections with mentors and community leaders
- Greater interest in college and STEM careers
- Opportunities to advocate for community change
This project is a powerful example of how mentorship and community-engaged learning can unlock new opportunities for students, especially those from underrepresented communities. By bringing together universities, educators, students, and community organizations, we create critical opportunities for students to develop skills, confidence, and leadership—and to see new possibilities for themselves.
For educators and policymakers, the study advocates systemic changes. Schools should integrate project-based learning into curricula, emphasizing community relevance. Funding for mentorship programs, particularly those serving minorities, is critical to sustain impact. Partnerships with industry can enhance GIS training, providing pathways to employment.
While challenges remain, the model offers a blueprint for inclusive education, emphasizing relevance and relationships. As STEM fields shape the future, such initiatives are vital to ensuring all communities have a voice in that progress.
Learn more about the project and its impact at communityshare.org/jso