Mathematics, Engineering & Science Achievement Program
Considering pursuing rigorous STEM fields? The Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program can provide you the support you need to successfully graduate and transfer.
How It Works
The MESA Community College Program (MCCP) aims to help underserved and underrepresented students achieve success in math- and science-based degrees. You can join a cohort of students on a similar path to you for support and motivation. This community of learners, with a very specialized focus, is what sets MESA apart from other student success programs.
Interested in applying? Email us for more details and request an application.Contact
The program aims to:
- Increase college retention and transfer rate to four-year institutions
- Provide enrichment in mathematics- and science-based courses
- Establish a mentoring program involving faculty, upper division students, and science/health professionals
- Increase the number of underrepresented students who graduate with degrees in math, science and engineering
- Assist in the application and transfer to four-year institutions
MESA creates a strong partnership between staff, advisers, school district officials, university professors and administrators, industry members, and parents. Industry involvement is especially strong since companies recognize MESA's ability to produce highly trained professionals.
The MESA Program serves educationally and financially disadvantaged students and emphasizes participation by students from groups with low eligibility rates to four-year colleges. MESA focuses on students majoring in mathematics/engineering/sciences who will transfer to a university.
To be eligible for the MESA Program, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment in Math 170 or above
- Pursue a calculus-based math, engineering or science transfer major
- Plan to transfer to a four-year college/university
- Have a GPA of 2.5 or above
- Financial need (receive financial aid)
- Educationally underserved
The MESA Program has received outstanding results providing a diverse pool of transfer-ready students who are prepared to excel as math, engineering and science majors. MESA's rigorous academics, leadership preparation, and collaborative problem-solving training have helped produce transfer students who graduate as part of the high-tech workforce that is so urgently needed by industry.
Other benefits include:
- Enrichment in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and other related sciences
- Academic excellence workshops
- Enhancement of study skills
- Academic advisement
- Career planning and assistance with the transfer process
- Career information
- Leadership training
- Goal setting
- MESA orientation
- Networking opportunities
- Conferences
- Mentoring
- Scholarships and financial aid resources
- Internship and summer enrichment programs
- Employment opportunities
To obtain the most out of your MESA experience you are encouraged to do the following:
- Be committed to your studies and strive toward a competitive GPA (at least 3.0)
- Be enrolled in at least 12 units every semester including appropriate STEM courses
- Meet with a MESA counselor at least once per semester to ensure that you meet your educational objectives
- Be proactive about participating in MESA activities and utilizing program resources
- Submit a personal statement and resume (MESA provides support sessions on these topics)
- Follow up with program staff for a Personal Success Plan (PSP), if required
Send an email to MESA@elcamino.edu and request a program application.
MESA helped me to meet my goals by fostering a community where I could access tutoring and counseling specialized for science students. With MESA, I was part of an academic community where we could form study groups and excel despite the rigor of our classes.”
Read Jessica's Story
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about the program from previous inquiries.
Research & Internship Opportunities
Gain hands-on experience and build out your resume.
Student & Professional Organizations
Enhance your skills and network with other professionals.
Questions? Contact Us