The Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems (PISCES) at University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is hosting the ninth annual Women’s STARS (STEM Aerospace Research Scholars) Program this summer. The free, hands-on program invites high school girls passionate about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to explore career pathways and gain inspiration for future studies in STEM fields.
The weeklong residential STEM program runs from June 15 to 21 on Hawaiʻi Island and is open to incoming freshmen through graduating seniors. Participants can explore engaging workshops, career prep, and behind-the-scenes tours of local STEM facilities.
- Applications are now open through April 30. Space is limited.
“Our goals are to build a community that participants can draw support from in the future, prepare them for challenges they may face, and provide experiences that connect them with mentors and careers in Hawaiʻi and beyond,” said Amber Imai-Hong, STARS Program organizer.
From STARS to careers
Since its launch in 2014, STARS has reached more than 80 young women from schools across the state. Many have gone on to study STEM fields and land careers in science and technology.
Jessica Nagasako attended STARS in 2018 while she was a student at McKinley High School. She went on to earn a BA in physics and astronomy and is now a telescope operator at the Canada-France-Hawaiʻi Telescope.
STARS is open to Hawaiʻi high school girls ages 14 and up and is offered at no cost to participants. Meals, accommodations, and on-island transportation are all covered. Neighbor island students must pay for airfare.
For more to go the PISCES website.
