By providing mentorship to high school girls, we are empowering them to connect with personal role models who can guide and inspire them. Through this individualized approach, we are creating positive and tangible change, fostering a sense of hope and possibility for the future. We believe that by increasing representation on a large scale, we can make a real difference in the lives of young women and help them achieve their dreams.

In the first year of the founding chapter of Lab, we had 66 participants, resulting in 33 pairs of mentors and mentees. The matching process was based on their shared interests and personalities, which they indicated on forms that we sent out to both parties. We consistently monitored the progress of these pairs in the following months and received positive feedback that exceeded our expectations. This feedback helped us improve our practices in other chapters and for the coming years.

Mentorships are tailored to the needs of each individual case, so the advice provided can vary accordingly. We have kept the structure flexible so that each partnership can determine what works best for them. Typically, mentor/mentee pairs meet in informal settings like coffee shops or cafes one to four times per quarter. This creates a relaxed environment where both parties can benefit from the relationship. The topics covered during these meetings are diverse and can vary based on the needs and interests of the pair.

Our program focuses on providing college/career advice, school advice, and guidance for maintaining a balanced social life for high school girls. The objective of this program is to promote positive and constructive dialogue between high school girls and their mentors, who serve as peer leaders and guides.

After conducting surveys to understand the immediate goals and benefits of the program, we identified several recurring themes that were both personal and professional, highlighting the program's versatility.

Several girls have expressed that the program has helped them gain a better understanding of the path to college and the opportunities available after high school. They have also stated that the program has helped them gain a better understanding of what it is like to work in a professional environment or research position. On a personal level, the girls have shared that they are learning more about the process of discovering their passions and sticking with them. Meeting and getting to know someone who inspires them has been a unique experience as they may not have had the opportunity otherwise. Some of them have also expressed excitement about making new friends through the program.

We offer monthly check-ins to keep track of the mentorship process. These events include the initial meeting, the halfway check-in, and an end-of-the-year celebration where all mentorship pairings are present. The chapter leaders are responsible for addressing any issues that may arise during the process. Our main goal is to increase interest in STEM fields and provide a foundation for representation. Furthermore, we strive to make the process enjoyable for everyone. Historically, women have been discouraged from pursuing STEM, which is why this program aims to bring about positive change for the future.

Wave 1 of the Mentorship Program 2023-2024 is closed.

Wave 2 of the Mentorship Program 2023-2024 is open -https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfDnL5NDO3b5p2ARsAwItOx-KPNU9aPrXHnD-jz-7B-nv3BtQ/viewform

What Mentees Think of Our Mentorship Program:

"My mentor has been a guiding
Light in navigating my prospective engineering career. The digital community aspect has added an extra layer to the experience allowing me to meet with professionals.” -Arya (PA)

"WiSTEM's Mentorship Program has been a transformative experience for me. Connecting with a mentor who shares my passion and understanding of the challenges women face in STEM has provided invaluable guidance" - Kritika (CA)