The MESA University (MESA-U) program helps undergraduate STEM majors successfully complete their STEM degrees and go on to STEM careers or to earn advance degrees. MESA-U is open to USC undergraduate STEM majors who participated in:
- MESA College Prep programs in California
- USC High School outreach programs (e.g. NAI, Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math Science, Educational Talent Search, Bovard Scholars, Med-COR, STARS, Bugs Jr, etc.)
- University of California’s (UC) EAOP and Puente Programs
USC MESA is also open to USC undergraduate STEM majors who are:
- Transfer students from CA MESA Community Colleges
- MESA-eligible graduates from a California public school:
- First generation college students,
- First STEM major in family, or
- Recipients of financial aid (e.g. Pell grant, CA Promise grant, Cal grant, Federal Work Study, Cal Fresh, CA Dream Act, GI Bill, etc.) or TANF
Each student MUST enroll in the MESA program to participate. Click the enrollment button (see this guide for help in registering).
This handbook can be used as a tool for academic, college, and career support.
Activities
Through a comprehensive array of offerings, MESA-U provides current MESA U undergraduates as well as alumni from the MESA College Prep, USC High School, and MESA Community College Programs, who matriculate to USC as STEM undergraduates, with opportunities that increase their likelihood of achieving STEM degrees and thriving in their chosen fields.
.
Study Sessions
Structured sessions designed to enhance academic proficiency and foster collaborative learning environments.
Mentorship
Guidance and support from experienced professionals and peers to navigate academic and career pathways.
STEM Community
Engagement in a supportive community of like-minded individuals, fostering collaboration and networking opportunities.
Summer Programs
Participation in specialized summer programs to gain valuable experience and skills.
MESA Space
MESASpace is a community for MESA students, staff, alumni, friends and partners. Stay connected to all members, extend your network, share your stories.
Current MESA-U students and alumni are eligible to join the community. MESA-U students are automatically added to MESASpace once they complete registration. Interested MESA-U Alumni (including former USC MEP students) can join MESA Space via : https://mesaspace.us.hivebrite.com/
AI Community Project
The AI Community Project seeks to boost representation of marginalized communities in AI and engineering. University students gain technical knowledge and leadership skills, becoming mentors for K-12 students. The initiative addresses the gap in AI development, emphasizing its importance in unlocking the full potential of AI and avoiding embedded biases.
.
ITEHE
The USC-ITEHE offers programs for community college students. H.E.L.E.N. enhances leadership & networking, helping students build confidence and transfer to 4-year institutions. DTEM exposes students to disruptive technologies and entrepreneurial thinking, preparing them for demanding STEM fields and market innovations. The Artificial Intelligence & Semiconductor Chips program delves into how tech advancements in semiconductors and big data can drive economic growth.
.
Visit Pathways to Science for information on programs and professional development resources for current and prospective undergraduate students — research experiences for undergraduates (REU), scholarships, and travel and research opportunities