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Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP)
Application | Summer Program | Evaluation of Students | Parental Support | Selection Criteria | Application Procedures | Expectations of Participants | Frequently Asked Questions
New York Residents (including permanent resident aliens) in grades eight through twelve, who belong to groups historically underrepresented in scientific, technical, health-related, and licensed professions, or who are economically disadvantaged. are selected to participate in The University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry's Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP). STEP is designed to stimulate and maintain participants' interest in career development opportunities in medicine and the health care professions. Students are exposed to a variety of academic and professional skill development opportunities to enhance their problem solving, critical thinking and test taking skills. One aspect of the Program's strength is in its emphasis on active or "hands-on" learning. STEP students have the opportunity to work directly with physicians, technical staff, certified teachers, medical, and graduate students.
Summer Step Program
The Summer STEP is an intensive four-week hands-on learning experience designed to expose highly motivated eight through twelfth grade students to learning and professional development opportunities. Further, it is designed for students who have recognized the importance of staying ahead and want to take advantage of their summer break to improve their academic and clinical skills. This experience is gained under the direct supervision of a preceptor who guides student projects and contributions to ongoing research. Program participants attend research seminars and informational sessions dealing with current topics in biomedical research. In addition, presentations are designed to enhance students' knowledge in specific areas of the biomedical sciences with the goal of preparing them, as well as encourage them to pursue a career in biomedical/behavioral research field or pursue a health-related science major as college students. The Summer STEP begins in July and applications are available in April.
Evaluation of Students
Throughout the Program, the STEP Coordinator gathers feedback on students' progress and provides mechanisms for feedback. In addition, students' attendance, laboratory work, oral and written reports and pre- and post-tests are evaluated at the end of each Program.
Parental Support
Parents of STEP participants are encouraged to participate in the STEP Parent Support Group Sessions which includes College prep workshops. These sessions are designed to inform parents about the participants' progress and to offer assistance in helping students to complete their educational objectives. There is also a Parent/Student Orientation session.
Applicants who meet the above criteria must submit the following:
- A completed and signed program application.
- Three letters of recommendation: one each from a science teacher, math teacher, or counselor and the third from a person (other than a family member) who knows the applicant and can describe their character, motivation, and commitment to participate in the program.
- A one-page essay that describes applicants' interest in STEP, and how the program will facilitate their preparation for a career in the health professions and/or biomedical sciences.
- An official copy of the student's academic transcript.
Selection Criteria and Application Procedures for Admission into the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP)
Selection Criteria
Consideration for STEP is given to students who are:
-
li>Members of groups historically underrepresented in scientific, technical, health related, and licensed professions or
- Economically Disadvantaged.
- New York State Resident (including permanent resident aliens) or Permanent Residents.
- Grades 8 through 12.
- Maintaining a GPA of 2.8 average or better.
- Expressing an interest in science and/or health professions.
******Phase II of the selection process will include an interview******
Expectations of Step Participants
Students participating in the STEP Programs are expected to:
- Show an appreciation for the learning activities, opportunities and experiences provided by the University of Rochester Medical Center.
- Consistently strive to improve academic preparedness and performance. Students who fall below their grade averages when accepted into the Program may be subjected to suspension.
- Demonstrate the ability to approach learning seriously.
- Learn to present information both orally and written in a professional manner.
- In an anticipated absence notify the Program Coordinator prior to the day of absence.
- Follow the procedures and adhere to instructions from the STEP staff.
- Follow the universal safety guidelines in handling body fluids and waste/toxic products during laboratory assignments.
- Secure transportation to and from the institution Maintain a journal and make an entry for each laboratory and instructional session.
- Attend all scheduled Program events, and continue to demonstrate an attitude that reflects a serious commitment to the Program.
- Submit a copy of the grade report for each academic period within two (2) weeks of receiving the grades.
- Submit copies of all standardized exams (PSAT, SAT, ACT) results.
Participants who adhere to the above performance standards and who are in good academic standing otherwise (attendance, attitude, motivation, etc.) will be given preference for participation in future Programs.
PLEASE NOTE: The Project Coordinator reserves the right to dismiss students who exhibit inappropriate behavior.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
- Do we need Lab coats? And where do we get them?
STEP students are required to wear lab coats when attending Wednesday and Saturday sessions. Lab coats are issued to students by the Program and must be worn while in the labs. It is the responsibility of the student to keep their lab coats clean, and lab coats issued to students. Students may or may not be required to turned in lab coats at the end of the Program. - Do we need an ID badge at the U of R? And where do we get ID badges?
All accepted students are required to wear an ID badge while on the University of Rochester 's premises. ID badges are provided to all participants by STEP and must be worn at all times when in the Medical Center and/or when in the laboratory areas. (Please note: there is a $10 replacement fee if an ID badge is lost. It is the student's responsibility for replacing the ID badge, including the $10 replacement fee). - How do we get to the Program? Is transportation provided?
STEP students are responsible for their own transportation back and forth from the Program. By taking responsibility for their own transportation, it is expected that students will arrive at their lab placements on time. Participants who elect to drive should park in one of the Medical Center fee-based visitor lots (on Crittenden Blvd. and across from the main entrance to Strong Memorial Hospital ). STEP does not provide free parking for any students. - Are we expected to attend all STEP sessions?
It is MANDATORY that ALL students attend every session. If there are anticipated absences (late arrivals) due to emergencies or known schedule conflicts, the Program Coordinator must be advised in advance. STEP participants who are tardy three times and/or absent twice (without the appropriate notification) will be dismissed from the Program. It is also the expectation of the Program Coordinator that students will attend ALL scheduled Program events, and continue to demonstrate an attitude that reflects a serious commitment to the Program. - What happens when we run into problems with other participants?
In the event of any problems, STEP participants are responsible for notifying the Coordinator about any problems/issues associated with the Program. In addition, students are expected to stop in or call the Program Coordinator if they have any questions or problems. Students are not encouraged to wait until a problem gets out of hand before making contact. All complaints should be documented in writing. The Coordinator is located in room G-9554 and may be reached by calling (585) 275-2928. - What do we do when we cannot attend a STEP session?
STEP students are expected call in advance of an anticipated absence. In addition, STEP students who plan to be absent should also contact the Coordinator's office at (585) 275-2928.
Click here to view STEP video.