Indiana State University has launched a new initiative to connect students interested in pursuing employment opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics with alumni for mentorship and career development.
STEAM: Destination Success, a collaborative effort between Indiana State University’s College of Arts and Sciences and the Bailey College of Engineering and Technology, bridges academic learning with real-world applications, cultivating future industry leaders.
Through this initiative, students from both colleges are paired with alumni with distinguished careers in STEAM. These mentors guide students on their academic journeys, share industry insights, and help them transition into the workforce.
Dr. Melinda Roberts, Dean of Indiana State University’s College of Arts and Sciences, said, "The STEAM: Destination Success initiative is an excellent representation of our commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. By providing mentorship and connecting students with industry leaders, we are helping them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the rapidly evolving STEAM sectors."
"This is an exciting opportunity for students to gain exposure to STEAM industries and to be mentored by professionals leading innovation across Indiana and the Midwest," added Dr. Divya Choudhary, Dean of Indiana State University’s Bailey College of Engineering and Technology. "We believe that by combining our mentoring sessions with the College of Arts and Sciences, we can create a powerful network that supports the growth and success of our students, both during their time in school and as they transition into their careers."
Since its October launch, the program has paired 14 students with 10 alumni mentors, supporting academic success, internship placements, and career exploration. This includes monthly workshops focusing on developing key skills students need after graduation while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all participants. Mentors come from various fields, such as packaging technology, laboratory pharmaceuticals, consulting firms, and higher education.
Indiana State University alumni working in STEAM fields are invited to inspire the next generation by becoming program mentors. For more information, contact Christopher Fischer (Science, Art, and Mathematics) at Christopher.Fischer@indstate.edu or Kara Harris (Technology and Engineering) at Kara.Harris@indstate.edu.