Steps 2 STEM

About Steps 2 STEM (S2S)

The Steps 2 STEM Summer Research Internship is a 4-week research experience for high school students participating in Pima County JTED's Biotechnology or Health Care Foundations programs.

Interns participating in Steps 2 STEM will complete two days of science literacy training and spend the remainder of the program working with professionals in STEM-related fields across the University of Arizona. At the conclusion of the 4-week internship, interns present their experience at the annual Steps 2 STEM Research Exhibit.

2023 Program Dates

June 1 - July 1, 2023

Science literacy training will be held on June 1 and 2, 2023.

Eligibility requirements:

Must be participating in Pima County JTED's Biotechnology or Health Care Foundations programs
Must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program
Completion of MCB 101 (Biotechnology 1) and MCB 102 (Biotechnology 2) by the start of the program is preferred

Steps 2 stem interns will:

Work in research labs of their interest across the University of Arizona campus
Develop science literacy skills
Develop public speaking skills
Receive 3 units of transferable college credit for the course, PCOL 105A
Receive University of Arizona Bloodborne Pathogens training certification
Receive University of Arizona Lab and Chemical Safety training certification

Steps 2 STEM-Summer 2020 Recap

'Steps 2 STEM' Program Exposes High School Students to STEM Careers

Ten high school students from Sunnyside High School, Pueblo High School, Tucson Magnet High School and Sahuarita High School gave presentations on their research experience in labs across the University of Arizona campus July 14 as part of a "Steps 2 STEM" program.

Applications for summer 2023 are now closed!

Application Instructions

Thank you for your interest in participating in Steps 2 STEM! Here is an overview of the process to complete your application.

First: Create an account

Before you can begin your application, you will be prompted to create an account. This is a necessary step that will allow you to log in and out of your application while saving your work. Be sure to write down your login information. If you would like to review the application in its entirety before completing your application, please click here. Use this document as a worksheet to make sure you have all the information you need to complete your application.

Instructions for your resume and cover letter can be found here. Use this document to make sure your resume and cover letter are complete and in the proper format.

Second: complete your application

After you gather the required information, including a completed resume and cover letter, please click the button below to start your application.

Click here to view a PDF version of the application before beginning yours.

What are the 2023 Program Dates?

June 1, 2023 - July 1, 2023

Science literacy training days will be held on June 1 and 2, 2023.

When are applications due?

Applications are now open for summer 2023.

Is there a Cost for the program?

No, all costs of the program are covered for participants including tuition and parking on campus.

Is there an age requirement for participants?

You must be 16 years old by the start of the program to participate. This year, the program will begin on June 1, 2023.

What is expected of me if I am selected as an intern?

All interns are expected to be available for the entirety of the program and be able to work 30-40 hours per week. Interns are expected to treat this opportunity as a job and therefore should always be on time or early and conduct themselves in a professional manner.

What if i'm unable to attend a training day(S)?

All Steps 2 STEM interns are required to complete both training days in order to participate. Failure to do so will result in the participant's removal from the program.

Can I take time off during the program?

No, exceptions will only be made for emergency cases.

Are there any pre-requisite courses?

Yes, students should have either completed or be currently participating in one of the following Pima County JTED programs: MBC 101 (Biotechnology 1), MCB 102 (Biotechnology 2), or Health Care Foundations.

What happens after i submit my application?

After the Steps 2 STEM staff reviews all of the applications, qualified applicants will be invited to interview. After all interviews are conducted, program staff will notify selected applicants.