Five MPCS students will graduate this year having fulfilled the requirements for the MPCS STEM major. These students have completed the requirements for the STEM major in their respective concentrations and will wear the signature silver cord at commencement:
Steven Baker, Science and Mathematics, Georgia Tech | Computer Science
Jillian Empie, Engineering and Computer Programming, University of Tulsa | Computer Science
Aidan Hanson, Science and Mathematics, University of Georgia | Business
Sarah McCune, Science and Mathematics, Wake Forest | Biology
Grant Terry, Science, Mathematics, and Engineering, Virginia Tech | Industrial Design
The STEM major is a program for high school students geared to enhance college and career readiness in STEM fields through high-level coursework, concentrated emphasis, and career-focused developmental opportunities. MPCS offers four STEM major tracks or pathways: science and mathematics; science, mathematics, and engineering; biological sciences; and engineering and computer programming. Each track requires a unique sequence of honors and/or AP courses in the sciences, mathematics, engineering, and/or computer programming.
The STEM major enhances the internal coursework within the curriculum by extending student learning outside of it. Over the course of four years, each candidate must attend a battery of STEM seminars presented by professionals, present a research project publicly at a STEM Expo, and complete a minimum of eighty hours of applied science experience in industry-based internships, co-ops, competitive robotics, university-hosted experiences, and/or work-based learning. The collection of coursework and experience is designed to not only enhance the student’s opportunity of college acceptance and readiness, but also develop career awareness and industry networking.