Math, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA)
What is MESA?
The Pierce College MESA program supports students majoring in calculus-based STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields who intend to transfer to a four-year institution, with a focus on first-generation and financially disadvantaged students. MESA seeks to broaden diversity in STEM majors and careers by providing wrap-around support services and activities to foster student achievement. Through the program, students gain a sense of belonging, develop academic and leadership skills, and gain confidence in their ability to succeed academically and professionally.
- MESA students must be pursuing a major that requires Calculus I (Math 261 at Pierce College) as well as higher level math courses or courses in physics, engineering, chemistry, biology, or computer science.
- Students cannot already have a bachelor's degree.
- Pierce College must be your home campus. Follow these instructions to check your home campus, and visit this link to change your Pierce College major and/or home campus.
- MESA students must also meet both of the following criteria*:
- 1st generation college student (neither parent has a bachelor's degree)
- Financially disadvantaged (student qualifies for need-based financial aid, as verified by college Financial Aid office)
- *Space permitting, students who do not meet both criteria may be admitted to the MESA program as “Friends of MESA”/ASEM students based on additional criteria including:
- Disproportionately impacted students based on the college’s Student Equity and Achievement Program
-
Underrepresented learners in specific STEM major
MESA students benefit from the following:
- Regular academic counseling from a dedicated MESA counselor
- Campus MESA Center for students to study, get tutoring, attend STEM-related club meetings, hang out, attend workshops
- Tutoring for STEM courses in the MESA Center
- Mentoring
- Academic, transfer, and career development workshops
- Career exploration through guest speakers, field trips, internship and research opportunities
- Opportunities to attend conferences
- Transfer application prep
- Access to STEM course software, printer, course materials in the MESA Center
- A supportive community of peers and staff
Complete our online interest form and we will be in touch with next steps. (you'll be prompted to sign into your student account)
MESA Program Contact