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MESA Success Stories
DVC MESA students excel at SACNAS conference in Puerto Rico
In fall 2022, a group of talented MESA students from Diablo Valley College embarked
on an unforgettable journey to attend the SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics
and Native Americans in Science) conference in Puerto Rico. This inclusive organization
aims to promote success for Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in STEM fields,
from college students to professionals.
During their trip, the DVC MESA students had the incredible opportunity to network with esteemed professionals from prestigious institutions like Harvard and Stanford, paving the way for future collaborations and potential internships. Furthermore, they attended inspiring workshops hosted by leading organizations such as NASA and META, boosting their knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for their chosen fields.
One of the MESA students, in particular, shone brightly at the conference, winning top honors for her exceptional presentation on her research opportunity at the University of California, Berkeley. Her accomplishment further demonstrates the caliber and dedication of Diablo Valley College's MESA students.
In addition to the invaluable professional experiences, the students also had the chance to explore and enjoy the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, creating lasting memories and strengthening their camaraderie.
The SACNAS conference proved to be an enriching experience for the DVC MESA students, providing them with essential connections, knowledge, and inspiration to excel in their STEM pursuits and become future leaders in their respective fields.
DVC students connect with industry professionals to help launch STEM careers
University of California, Danielle McNamara - "Three talented Diablo Valley College students gathered in downtown Los Angeles
in a step towards becoming the diverse leaders of tomorrow’s tech and engineering
workforce.
MESA’s Student Leadership Conference brings together hand-picked engineering and computer science students with industry professionals to develop the next generation of STEM leaders. Held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel Oct. 4-5, this year’s conference theme was A Bounty of Homegrown Talent.
Unlike job fairs or speaker-only conferences, MESA students got the unique opportunity to interact one-on-one and in small groups with company executives, engineers and recruiters. Many often leave the conference with internship offers that lead to full time employment. Students participated in mock interviews, communications, team building, emotional intelligence and financial literacy workshops, and watched entrepreneur and alumni panels.
Both students and companies benefit from the conference: students network and gain the soft skills needed to be well-rounded employees; companies gain access to talented, diverse candidates for internships and employment.
The Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program guides diverse students from underrepresented backgrounds into STEM careers."
Pictured above, left to right: Grecia Ventura, Maitreyee Chandra, Mouzima Mousumi and Pauline Poe.