Preparing for Greatness…
The time has come for you to let the world know who you are and what you can do. The programs in this section are designed to give you the edge you need as you seek to expand your horizons and make the transition from childhood to adulthood.
How to Become a STEM Superstar
SCIENCE CLASSES IN HIGH SCHOOL
Take as many science and mathematics classes as possible. Colleges want students who have more than the required three science credits on their transcript. To be prepared for college-level mathematics courses, students must successfully master Algebra II course content. Students must enroll in a non-trivial mathematics course during their senior year. Work with your teachers and guidance office to see what math and science courses are available to you.
Harford and Cecil County Public Schools each offer focused instructional opportunities at the high school level for students interested in pursuing STEM careers. For more information, please visit the following:
- Cecil County STEM Academy – Through special collaborative agreements between Cecil County Public Schools and Cecil College, eligible students can be involved in advanced studies in science and mathematics. At the same time, they can earn as many as 18 college credits while in high school. Courses will be taken at both the local high school and Cecil College. To be eligible for the STEM Academy, students must be enrolled in Geometry or higher mathematics in the eighth grade. In order to continue at Cecil College and be eligible for tuition reductions, students must meet and complete established admissions criteria.
- Harford County Public Schools Magnet Programs – The Science and Mathematics Academy at Aberdeen High School is a school-within-a school magnet program that provides academically talented students with educational experiences that integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics beyond traditional advanced program. Admission to this rigorous four year program is by competitive application based on prior academic success, interest and motivation in science and mathematics, teacher recommendations and written communication skills. Each year hundreds of students apply for the 55 seats in the freshman class. Entering students must be ready for Algebra II as an entry level mathematics class, having completed courses in Algebra I and geometry prior to high school.
PARTICIPATE IN EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Many colleges and employers look for students that have participated in after school and summer programs, as well as competitions and internships. Fortunately, there are many extra-curricular STEM programs available at the high school level. Click on the links to the left for more information regarding competitions/clubs and summer programs. Check out our COLLEGE page for lists of internships and scholarships, many of which are available to high school seniors and recent graduates.
More STEM Programs In the Community…
Clubs such as the Boys and Girls Club, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts are not specifically geared towards STEM, but offer STEM activities for students who are interested.
The Harford County Public Library and the Cecil County Public Library offer various STEM programs for students.
The following programs are also available in our area:
- Physics is Phun – A free public lecture series presented by UMD in order to encourage and inspire students’ interest in science and physics.
- Destination Imagination
- 4H Youth Development
- Civil Air Patrol – ages 12+
