A 4-H youth development program changes perceptions, making students insiders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics

Role models, often parents or other close family members, serve as crucial sources of inspiration for students engaged in making career choices in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), according to research studies.

A big part of what Janice McDonnell is doing with a program known as Rutgers 4-H STEM Ambassadors is to connect students without a STEM role model in their families or communities with working scientists.

McDonnell is an associate professor and Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Agent in the Department of 4-H Youth Development, at the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS). She runs the program, funded by Bristol Myers Squibb, with Chad Ripberger, the county extension department head of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Mercer County.

McDonnell discussed the importance of the STEM Ambassadors program.

Full article at Rutgers News