PROFILE   |   Professional Development Program for MESA STEM Students

Professional Development Program for MESA STEM Students American River College

American River College’s professional development program (PDP) gives students direct access to a professor to help them navigate the college environment. It provides students with a $1,000 stipend to help supplement their financial needs and is paid in two installments to incentivize ongoing engagement. Faculty mentors are paired with students based on the student’s goals and gives students access to a college experienced caring adult to help them navigate their experience. 100% of participating students were able to pass all of their courses, whereas the average course success rate for all STEM students in the same semester was only 66%.