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The World Images of Science and Engineering for Women Program (WISE Women) at Mississippi State University Abstract The World Images of Science and Engineering for Women (WISE Women) Program at Mississippi State University is a natural expansion of the K-12 outreach activities of the Bagley College of Engineering. Since 1990, with the cooperation of the local National Society of Black Engineers chapter, the college has sponsored the University Familiarization Program for Minorities in Engineering (UFPME) for rising ninth through eleventh graders. In addition, since 1994, along with the student section of the Society of Women Engineers, the college has hosted Women in Action, a program for rising seventh and eighth grade females. Over half of the participants in these two programs have pursued or are pursuing a degree in science or engineering.

Due to the success of both UFPME and Women in Action, the college realized the need for a program targeting past participants of Women in Action to continue their interest in science and engineering during high school. In 2001, the WISE Women program was introduced. It was modeled after the UFPME program, but shortened to one-week instead of two. Participants are introduced to the ten engineering disciplines offered at Mississippi State University. They also participate in hands-on activities, with two major project competitions that are completed throughout the week. Six to eight SWE student members act as counselors throughout the week and faculty conduct and assist with activities and tours.

Post-camp follow-up has shown that of the girls who are eligible to attend college, almost half are currently in college. Of those, most are in an engineering discipline. Several students’ comments indicated they gained a better understanding of engineering and what it takes to become an engineer. One student, an eleventh grader during the 2001 WISE Women program stated, “The camp gave me a window to see what exactly each field of engineering did and how each field affects the daily lives of everyone around the world!” This student is now a senior in Aerospace Engineering at Mississippi State University.

Introduction

To promote careers in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology among the youth of today, the Bagley College of Engineering at Mississippi State University has an innovative

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Seiler, E. (2006, June), The World Images Of Science & Engineering (Wise Women) Program Paper presented at 2006 Annual Conference & Exposition, Chicago, Illinois. 10.18260/1-2--190