KuC Career Bridging FAQ's

What is the KuC STEM Bootcamp?

KuC’s STEM / Summer Bootcamp is a ‘summer bridging program’, which includes an internship at Bethel-based corporations as a source of income for college bound students. This bootcamp opens the door to careers in natural resources, wildlife management, engineering sciences, multimedia technologies, telecommunications and more. The program is six weeks long during the summer and is targeted at high school seniors who are graduating in May 2008, and specifically for those students who plan to study, math, science or engineering in college. The program instructor is Dr. Bob Brown from the KuC STEM Academy.

Who can be a Student?

Students must be in their senior year in high school, and ready to graduate in May 2008.
Students must have a strong academic background and interest in Science and Technology. [Transcripts are reviewed…students are selected]
Students who are planning on attending University of Alaska have priority.
Students who are currently enrolled or have attended the KuC Talent Search program have priority in the selection process.

How do I become an STEM Academy Student?

Complete an application and
Students must have completed or currently be enrolled in Trigonometry or can provide proof of competency in trigonometry. Success in a physics or chemistry course is also recommended.

What should I expect if I am selected?

All STEM Academy students must live on campus in at the Kuskokwim University Campus Academy dormitory housing even if you live in the Bethel.
Two hours (2) of math class Monday - Saturday and two hours (2) of homework study every day. Qualified tutors will be available during homework sessions.
Six hours (6) per day of paid internship working in the field that you are interested in or closely related.
Group Activities planned on Friday's evenings and Saturday's - all must participate.
Field trips to local and regional camps, and other organizations in the Bethel area to gain knowledge of engineering or science within the community.
Working as a group in team building activities.

What are the benefits of KuC’s STEM Academy Bootcamp?

Real life work experience in an internship at United Utilities, YKHC, US Fish and Wildlife, US Fish and Game, AVCP Housing, Placer Dome USA, Bristol Engineering, and more.
Paid internship and eligible for a scholarship.
Math preparation for college level classes that will help ensure your success in college.
New friends and connections in your chosen field and becoming a member of a cohort study group.
Becoming an ANSEP student!*

How long is the Summer STEM Academy Boot-camp Program?

Seven weeks (7). Students arrive June 7 with classes beginning Monday June 9. The last day of class is July 25 with students departing campus Friday July 26.

Does the Academy pay for Airfare to the KuC Campus for students that do not live in Bethel?

Yes, and for students who qualify academically and have the proper recommendations, the Academy will also pay for the following:
Housing on the KuC Campus.
Transportation to and from work and math class.
Group activities.
Meals (breakfast and Dinner) lunch is paid by the student, due to the various work locations.
Textbook for the course.

When do I have to use my Academy and ANSEP Scholarship?

All Academy students must enroll in the University of Alaska in the fall semester after completing the program in order to receive the scholarship. **

* Alaskan Native Science and Engineering Program.

**Special circumstances may exist and can be determined by the state-wide ANSEP Program.