Welcome to the CeO SSS STEM Program
The Center of Educational Opportunity (CeO) serves students who meet one or more of the following criteria: first-generation, income-restricted, or are students with disabilities. The TRIO funded Student Support Services (SSS) STEM program specifically guides students through their undergraduate experience within STEM fields.
What is STEM?
STEM is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in four disciplines -Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The STEM curriculum blends the four subjects together to teach modern day skills and provides students the tools to apply relevant “real-world” knowledge in and outside of the classroom.
The Importance of STEM
The National Science Foundation states that “in the 21st century, scientific and technological innovations have become increasingly important as we face the benefits and challenges of both globalization and a knowledge-based economy. To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past.” This means that there are many unopen pathways for STEM students and will allow students to pursue more career paths.
Why STEM Matters
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are growing at 17% while other occupations are growing at 9.8%. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics workers play a key role in the sustained growth and stability of the U.S. economy. STEM degree holders have a higher income even in non-STEM careers.
Did you know, STEM workers earn 26% MORE than those without a STEM background? College graduates overall make 84% more over a lifetime than those with only high school diplomas, but STEM majors earn a higher wage than those who do not have a STEM degree and are less likely to experience job loss. According to research conducted by the Department of Education, students in the STEM career fields earn over $15,000 more on average in their positions than those who did not earn a STEM-related degrees.
What CeO STEM Scholars Receive
New first-year scholars and new transfer scholars in the CeO STEM program attend STEM Immersion or Transfer STEM Immersion, have the opportunity to attend STEM specific experiences and conferences, have a STEM Peer Navigator and a STEM CeO Advisor to support their goals and share knowledge of the field.
Want to get in touch with CeO STEM?
Email Ryan Grady at ryan.grady@wisc.edu with questions or to connect your program or office with our CeO STEM Scholars!
