YouSTEM for San Francisco Bay Area

What is YouSTEM?

YouSTEM is a free web resource that aims to make it easy to find and browse information about local programs for K-12 students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Most of the listed programs are free! The types of programs listed include internships / lab volunteer positions, guided labs, and seminars.

Who should use YouSTEM?

Students should use YouSTEM to find local internships, volunteer positions, classes, camps, and conferences in the subjects that they are interested in. Parents and teachers can also use YouSTEM to find opportunities for a K-12 student.

What kind of programs are listed on YouSTEM?

Most of these programs are free for students or pay a stipend, the cost is indicated on the Program Summary on the Main Page. Additional information and details regarding the Program eligibility requirements and application are listed on the Program Info page for each program.

How do I use YouSTEM to search for local opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math?

1. Go to the YouSTEM Main page
2. Use the 'Filter Results' section on the left side of the page to narrow down the results to programs that you are interested in. You can filter based on program type, subject, local region, season, grade level, and cost. Click the 'Update' button to apply the filters you've selected
3. A list of programs that match your interests will show up on the right side of the page
4. Use the subject tabs on the top of the page to further narrow down the results if you wish.
5. To learn more about a specific program, click on the 'Learn More' button; that will take you to its Program Info page
6. If you wish to apply or to learn even more about the program, you can visit the program's official website by clicking on the 'Website' link on the left side of the Program Info page or contact the program director using the information provided (also on the left side of the program info page)

How do I apply for the programs listed on the YouSTEM website?

Although the YouSTEM website provides an extensive overview of each program including details such as application deadlines, requirements, prerequisites, etc., you cannot apply from the YouSTEM website itself. Instead, you need to visit the official program website (by clicking the link provided on the program info page) and follow the instructions for applying.

The deadline listed for the program says "Check back for next year's date". What should I do?

To get further information regarding program dates for next year, you can contact the program director using contact details listed on the Program Info page, you can check the official website, or you can check back later to see if the information has been updated on YouSTEM.

How can I tell if a program is right for me?

There are many different types of programs listed here so it may be difficult to decide what program would be right for you. However, if you fit the grade/age and other requirements, then you are making a good start. You want to make sure that you are interested in what the program has to offer before applying. It is helpful to check out the official website for the program (the link is available on the program info page) as there may be testimonials from past participants that can help you make your decision.

Is housing provided for summer programs?

That depends on the program you are interested in. The information regarding housing may be listed on the program info page on YouSTEM. You should also check the official website for the program.

How competitive is admission to these programs?

The level of competition for admission depends on the program that you are applying for. If you would like to talk to someone to see how strong a candidate you are for a program, you can contact the Program Director listed on the program info page.