USD Works to Diversify STEM Fields

The University of San Diego is working to diversify the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through its AnchorSTEM program. The program recruits and supports students from underrepresented communities in pursuing a STEM major at USD, including individualized mentorship by one of the university’s professors, and participation in a variety of activities that will prepare them for a fulfilling career in STEM. The award also comes with a scholarship from the National Science Foundation, as well as additional financial support from the university for up to four years.

USD has selected a group of nine talented students this year, including High Tech High Chula Vista senior Rodrigo Tapia Guevara, to become AnchorSTEM Scholars. “Knowing that I got into this program, I know I will be able to accomplish a lot of things,” said Guevara.

“This student is curious, determined and hungry to make a difference in this world by focusing on those who need it the most,” said Perla Myers, PhD, USD mathematics professor and project lead.

Guevara intends to study engineering and international relations at USD. He has dreamed of pursuing a career in STEM since he was a young boy. “Ever since I was a little kid, I had a problem with my right eye. My left eye, I can see perfectly fine, 20/20 vision. On the right eye, it is really bad. I always had a dream in the future of being able to modify my DNA in my eye to improve it and even enhance it above 20/20 vision,” says Guevara. His goal is to start his own company to create affordable, brain-controlled prosthetics.

AnchorSTEM is a 5-year project that deepens USD’s role of Anchor Institution by building on the structures of past STEM projects, while strengthening community partnerships to empower local “Rising Stars.”