User:CannibalSTVN/sandbox

The Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program or (ANSEP) is an organization dedicated to educating Alaskan Native youth in science, technology, engineering, and medicine (STEM) fields. It is located primarily in Anchorage, Alaska on the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) campus. The purpose of ANSEP is to effect systemic change in the hiring of Alaska Natives in the fields of science and engineering.

History:

ANSEP was started in 1995 as a scholarship program for Alaska Natives attending university. Over time it changed into a long term model for educating students by assisting them from sixth grade, throughout high school, and eventually into university where they attend science and engineering programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. Today ANSEP consists of a multitude of corporations, non-profits, federal organizations, and schools.

Programs:

ANSEP starts at the middle school level through its Middle School Academy. This program is held annually and primarily functions as a summer opportunity. However, if a student’s school district is partnered with ANSEP they will be eligible for year-round ANSEP education. The Middle School Academy primarily focuses on introducing students to various STEM fields through various exercises. These vary from building a computer, dissecting squid, and creating structures for an earthquake simulation. These exercises and their accompanying lectures all occur on the UAA campus. This academy is noteworthy as it is free of charge for any student who is accepted. From this point, students who have completed Middle School Academy may participate in a further program called STEM Career Explorations. These programs are only 5 days in length and can range from energy sciences, geological sciences, health sciences, marine sciences. These topics change annually.

Once a student enters high school they may apply for the Acceleration Academy. This is a full time program which is taught in both Anchorage and Mat-Su Valley. This program moves beyond the introductory exercises of the Middle School Academy by allowing students to enroll in full-time college courses. Students may earn more than a year’s credits in BA and BS degree programs. This program is also available in the summer and allows for the application of credits to high school credits as well. Both versions of this program are fully paid if accepted to them, just like the Middle School Academy. In addition, ANSEP hosts a summer bridge for students to prepare them for the transition to college. This is eligible for high school seniors and consists of math course enrollment and a paid science internship.