CSTEP

The purpose of CSTEP is to increase the number of college graduates who are from ethnic groups that have been traditionally underrepresented in technical-related fields, or who are from economically disadvantaged families to pursue careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Math, Engineering or the licensed professions. CSTEP is sponsored by the New York State Education Department's Bureau of Professional Career Opportunity Programs.

Clarkson's Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) has been in existence since 1994 and has served over 250 students. The program helps to assure a competitive advantage by providing academic guidance and tutoring. The CSTEP staff helps students meet the challenges of the competitive fields within science and the technologies by offering career guidance and skill building that will help students identify and prepare for a career.

Students will be given opportunities to participate in activities such as conferences; networking with corporations, other colleges and universities; as well as meeting with Clarkson University alumni. This will build their career network, and may lead to becoming involved with research, co-op, study abroad, or internship opportunities. CSTEP offers assistance with various graduate and professional exams, or with applying to graduate schools when approaching the end of baccalaureate degree requirements

Information and Services Provided by CSTEP

• Laptop computer sign-out program
• Laser printing, color printing, copying and resume paper available.
• Library of journals, research, books, etc.
• Character references provided for active participants.
• Scientific/Graphing Calculator Loan Program
• CSTEP bi-monthly newsletter.

Programming Includes

Academic Development

• Academic advisement
• Academic progress monitoring and assistance
• Individual tutoring
• Academic achievement awards
• Study skills, time management, and other workshops

Graduate School Preparedness

• CSTEP Summer Research Program — Nine week paid summer internship working with Clarkson faculty in lab setting on cutting edge research projects
• Professional speakers with advanced degrees
• Undergraduate research projects & opportunities
• GRE/GMAT/LSAT/MCAT exam preparation
• Graduate school application assistance
• Fellowship and scholarship application assistance

Career and Professional Development

• Job shadowing and mentoring with alumni and other professionals
• Annual CSTEP Career Exploration Symposium (meet with career professionals in a day-long conference setting)
• Guest speakers and seminars
• Resume writing workshops and one-on-one assistance
• Summer internships, and participation in Career Development Center's CO-OP and study abroad programs
• Corporate field trips
• Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam preparation for future engineers
• Professional development and skills workshops
• Free access to Knightlink career development software for posting resumes and job searching online

Enrichment Activities and Personal Development

• Annual CSTEP Student Conference poster presentation
• Travel to regional and national research and professional conferences
• Social and cultural field trips and events (past trips have included Ottawa, Ontario, Titus Mountain Ski Center and more)
• Travel to visit graduate schools and industry sites
• Travel to annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards Conference in Baltimore, MD

CSTEP's Eligibility Requirements

• New York State resident or a permanent resident alien residing in New York State.
• Enrolled at Clarkson University and in good academic standing.
• African-American, Native American, Latino or Hispanic heritage, or meet low income guidelines set by New York State (contact our office for more details).

For more information, contact:

CSTEP Office
PO Box 5514
Potsdam, New York 13699-5514
Phone: 315-268-6669
Fax: 315-268-6552
E-mail: cstep@clarkson.edu