Dr. Aparna Sen began investigating a project that would bring in more high school students to MATC for STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) areas of study in 2010. Dr. Sen is a MATC natural science instructor with a zest for educating students in the sciences. Her strong interest in the sciences began in her native country of India while studying at Lady Brabourne College and Calcutta University. Through the research of a STEM committee, meeting once a month coordinated by Dr. Dan Burrell, the need for promoting high school students into science careers at MATC became apparent.
Dr. Sen along with Dr. Zack Shana provided the framework for MATC to receive a $526,937 three-year grant from the National Science Foundation, which supports the BEST (Biochemical Excellence in Science and Technology) program. Dr. Shana is the Instructional Chair of MATC’s Natural Science department and is the lead instructor of the college’s Chemical Technician associate degree program.
The ‘double bridge’ is the result of getting high school students to participate in a summer STEM workshops at MATC and then returning again performing summer internships after they graduate. The BEST program is constructed to aid students in their transition from an associate degree to a four-year college, obtaining a bachelor’s degree, according to Dr. Sen. The BEST program provides paid summer internships, helping students who have developed strong interests in biotechnology, chemistry, biology, and biochemistry.
Dr. Sen commented on the success of former MATC 2008 graduate, Tamara Ananeva. Ananeva was one of the speakers at the recent Biotechnology, Chemical Technology Lab workshop tours held at the Downtown campus. Ananeva who is originally from Russia, now works for the Environmental Protection Agency as a Fellow at the Racine Water Department. She is currently also working on her PhD. The BEST workshops run from June 20-30 and July 11-21.
Dr. Sen emphasized the importance of getting students involved in the sciences. Sen also mentioned that MATC has advanced Biotechnology equipment, which in many cases is reserved for only graduate students in other schools.
Information regarding the BEST program can be obtained from Dr. Sen at [email protected] or 414-297-6594.
