STEM BASED SCHOLARSHIPS AND OPPORTUNITIES
STEM Learning has emerged as a revolutionary concept that is transforming the world of education. The term has been coined to refer to the study of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. These subjects were chosen due to the crucially vital role that they play towards a student’s career and future in general and because no other discipline can be mastered without learning at least one of these.
These subjects have always been part of a standard school curriculum. The question then arises as to why a new educational structure was conceived to streamline their study and what is the distinguishing factor that sets it apart? The answer lies in the manner in which teaching is carried out under this model. Rather than solely imparting theoretical and bookish knowledge, it seeks to train students in real-world applications of the disciplines involved.
EXPENSE ANALYSIS OF STEM INSTITUTIONS
STEM Learning is gaining wide popularity among both schools and students. More and more schools are adapting their curriculum to incorporate this model, and students prefer to enrol only in such schools.
Schools that apply the STEM methodology have to necessarily undertake certain structural and procedural changes. The requirements of this method of teaching are slightly more demanding as compared to the traditional teaching model. For the latter, all that was needed to impart education was a simple classroom, books, and a teacher. These requirements are also present in the STEM model, however, they are not sufficient. To undertake the practical learning-based system proposed by the model, changes have to be made to the usual classroom and school structure.
The first requirement is for an institute to have a fully functional laboratory, with top-of-the-line equipment. This will truly enable students to go beyond their usual experimental horizons and explore their subjects. Secondly, the faculty required for imparting knowledge about the nuanced subjects of STEM has to be highly qualified, and are often practising industry professionals. Thus for an institute, engaging such staff raises their expenses. Lastly, these institutions rely heavily on technology and hence have to spend to procure the latest versions of such technology, subscriptions for online magazines and platforms, etc.
Due to the above-stated factors, these institutes are an expensive option. Most students are unable to generate the amount required to enrol in such places and thus are dissuaded from pursuing their education in STEM.
THE SCHOLARSHIP SOLUTION
A scholarship is a financial aid or grant given to a student for academics. Due to the financial dilemma enumerated above, scholarships are often the only way to allow students to continue their education. Scholarships may be likened to a charitable gift given to deserving students, unlike a loan that eventually has to be repaid.
There is a massive job market for STEM-related professions. Hence there is a lot of incentive to produce as many STEM graduates and postgraduates from teaching institutes as possible. Thus scholarships are a mutually beneficial solution, as they satisfy the requirements of both the students and the institute.
STEM SCHOLARSHIPS
STEM scholarships can be availed by any student who possesses the curricular and extracurricular qualifications required. These criteria are not standard and may vary for each program.
There are different scholarship programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Often, these are open to all categories of students and are solely determined according to qualifications. However certain other STEM Scholarships are specifically for women, or students of minority groups. This is done to generate inclusivity of these groups in STEM professions.
Some of the noteworthy STEM scholarship programs are:
- Masergy STEM Scholarship
This unique program is directed towards financially aiding those who can become ingenious creators and contribute to society through their inventions. The main criteria required to be eligible for this program is that the student must have created a novel and unique invention which uses the concepts of STEM learning, and which has actual, tangible benefits associated with it. Any student who satisfies this criterion and is a STEM major from an accredited university is open to trying their luck to secure the scholarship.
The program offers rewards to two such inventions, of a handsome sum of $5000 each. The application process is very straightforward and requires eligible students to simply upload a short video clip showcasing and explaining their invention.
- Spirit of Ramanujan STEM Talent Initiative
This program was developed to honour the name and legacy left behind by the renowned Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan.
It aims to help budding talents in STEM fields by providing them financial assistance and guidance through experienced mentors. Prodigies of any age or nationality who have a penchant for the component subjects of STEM may apply for this grant and can secure up to $5000 to pursue their future academic endeavours.
- Technip India Limited Scholarship Program
This benevolent program has been initiated to support and encourage the education of females from underprivileged backgrounds in the field of STEM. Such programs largely help improve rural literacy levels. The fact that this program specifically targets female education makes it further noble as girls are often denied basic education. In such a scenario, providing them with the means to pursue a STEM education is truly a life-altering blessing.
Besides these, there are several other scholarship programs available for a student. These truly help in transforming our society into a powerhouse of STEM Learning.
