STEM Careers Guide: Exploring Opportunities in Innovation and Professional Growth

GPA (Grade Point Average)

1. Each university has different admission criteria, but GPA is crucial.
2. GPA is the average of accumulated grades throughout high school.
3. The GPA system assigns numerical values from 0 to 4 for grades.
4. An A (100%) equals 4, and an F (0%) equals 0.
5. The grade conversion process may vary by university if you still need to finish high school in the U.S. There are two options for these.
   • Degree Evaluation: It is basic, focusing on the equivalency of degrees in the U.S., suitable for employment and immigration.
   • Transcript Evaluation: It is more comprehensive, including degree equivalency, grades, credits, and GPA in the U.S., and recommended for academic admissions and licensing.
   • Top Credential Evaluation Agencies: Some prominent agencies include World Education Services (WES) and Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE). NACES-accredited evaluators are widely recognized.

1. Among the options for studying STEM in Utah are Salt Lake Community College (SLCC), University of Utah, Weber State University, Utah Valley University (UVU), and Brigham Young University (BYU) in the Salt Lake Valley, but there are many more in the state such as Snow College and Utah Tech University among others.
2. Weber State University, Utah Valley University, and Salt Lake Community College are “open-enrollment” universities in Utah, with no minimum GPA for admission, meaning that most applicants to these universities are admitted.
3. Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) and other community colleges offer associate degrees of 2 years duration as opposed to bachelor’s degrees from universities, but starting studies at a community college can facilitate transfer to a university.
4. Salt Lake Community College has one of the lowest tuition costs and every student who applies is admitted. The application takes 5-10 minutes.
5. Community Colleges tend to be more economical.
6. A GPA of 3.2 is acceptable, but for more demanding universities or scholarships, a GPA close to 4 is recommended.
7. In 2024, the University of Utah launched the “Utah Direct” program, which ensures admission with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
8. Most universities have offices that help students in different immigration situations such as DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), for example, the Dream Center at the University of Utah, or the “Undocu-Student” Center at BYU.
9. In the state of Utah, thanks to a regulation from 2002, undocumented students can apply to state universities such as the University of Utah and receive in-state tuition if they meet certain requirements.
10. There are also scholarships that undocumented students can apply for at the national level

1. Many universities offer full scholarships covering total tuition costs.
2. Out-of-state tuition is usually up to three times more expensive than in-state tuition.
3. Prestigious universities, like those in the Ivy League, also offer scholarships but are highly competitive.

Activities Considered in Admission

Beyond GPA, universities consider: 

1. Leadership activities: participation in leadership roles in different areas.
2. Volunteering: opportunities in various places, such as libraries. An example is Club Ability, where you can help teachers in classes and learn how to get started in technology.
3. Sports: participation in high school sports teams or competitive activities.
4. Letters of recommendation: letters of support from teachers, coaches, or mentors.
5. Networking: professional connections and relationships, especially in areas such as technology and social sciences (SS).

Standardized Tests for Admission

1. The ACT (American College Testing) evaluates skills in math, reading, English, and science.
2. It’s considered in university admissions along with the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test).
3. The TOEFL iBT if the application comes from an international student. It tests reading, speaking, listening, and writing.
4. A good score can influence scholarships and academic opportunities.
5. NOTE: Many Utah universities make these test results optional.

1. Weber State University offers scholarships for non-residents that cover tuition and other expenses for 6 to 8 semesters. It requires a good ACT/SAT score, a competitive GPA, and being a full-time student.
2. SLCC offers a scholarship called “SLCC Promise” that covers the rest of the tuition that FAFSA (government financial aid) does not cover. It also offers work scholarships where the student can work with an SLCC office for 10 hours a week and the tuition for the semester will be paid by them.
3. Brigham Young University has different types of scholarships for non-resident students, international and undocumented that cover tuition or other needs. There are scholarships by department, excellence, and need. The GPA must be maintained between 3.0 and 4.0 and be a full-time student.
4. SLCC is home to one of the two Dream Centers that exist in the state of Utah. The Dream Center supports students with DACA or without documents to find scholarships. They offer a scholarship each semester called “Bruin Dreams” where students receive support from a mentor (SLCC staff/faculty) during the semester.
5. Utah Valley University (UVU) has scholarships for non-residents with a GPA between 3.0 and 4.0. More information is available on their scholarship website.
6. The University of Utah also offers several scholarships for students, both residents and non-residents.
7. Utah Somos Foundation offers a special scholarship for Latinos.
8. The “FAFSA” is fundamental for those who have legal status in the U.S. and are seeking state financial aid, but it also opens the door to many private scholarships.
9. Private scholarships from companies like McDonald’s, Dell, and Google are competitive options, which require good academic performance and volunteering.
10. “University clubs” at Weber State and UVU can grant tuition reimbursement or scholarships in exchange for participation.
11. UVU offers a program for “first generation” students, committed to working at least 10 hours per week helping other students.
12. “Academic counselors” are key to accessing specific scholarships, research, internships, and job opportunities.
13. It is essential to research and apply for scholarships actively, as the university does not automatically grant aid.

Once in the University how can I get scholarships? What other activities are important during the career?

1. Getting scholarships: Research internal university scholarships and apply each semester. Consult with academic advisors and review opportunities on financial aid pages.
2. Important activities: Participating in research, student organizations, and clubs related to your career improves your curriculum and network of contacts.
3. Research Assistant (RA) and Teaching Assistant (TA): RAs help in research projects and TAs assist in teaching classes. You can obtain these positions by talking to professors or applying to departments related to your area of study.
4. Lab jobs: You can gain experience in university laboratories, which sometimes includes benefits such as scholarships or tuition reduction. Ask in your department or look for special programs.
5. Opportunities to grow your curriculum: Programs like “UROC” at the University of Utah offer scholarships to work on research projects with a mentor, which strengthens your experience and network of contacts.
6. Internships: They are crucial for obtaining work experience and frequently turn into job offers. Apply in advance, usually months ahead, as they are often during the summer.
7. Preparation before graduating: A year or two before finishing, focus on internships, relevant projects, and networking to facilitate the transition to employment. Research potential employers and connect with professionals in your field.
8. Networking: It is key during studies. It allows you to meet companies and professionals in your area. In Utah, organizations such as “Silicon Slopes”, Women Tech Council, Latinas in Tech, and Club Ability, are excellent for creating professional networks. In your university, there are also different types of clubs according to your career. The most important and highly recommended are those of SHPE, as it is dedicated to Latino/Hispanic students in STEM.

Once I finish university, what do I do?

1. What to do with an undergrad: It is important to define your goals before finishing your bachelor’s degree. If you are interested in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), exploring options such as continuing postgraduate studies or entering the job market with practical experience is essential.
2. Applying for competitive jobs: To access more competitive jobs, make sure to stand out in your area, and build a solid curriculum with internships, research projects, and networking. Look for positions that value your skills and experience in your field.
3. Opportunities in STEM: STEM careers offer a wide variety of jobs, from engineering to biotechnology. Participating in projects, research, and internships during your career is key to standing out in these fields.
4. Graduate studies and PhD: A PhD is a doctorate focused on advanced research whose main objective is to advance academic or scientific understanding of a topic through original research. A master’s degree focuses more on acquiring professional knowledge and skills in a specific area to advance in the career or specialize. The PhD often includes funding that covers tuition in full, health insurance, and a living stipend.
5. Preparing for graduate school: If you’re interested in a PhD, start preparing early by doing research, participating in research conferences and conducting summer internships, building relationships with mentors and professors, and reviewing the requirements of the universities you plan to apply to.
6. Need for a PhD in science: To work as a scientist, a doctorate (PhD) is usually required. While with a bachelor’s degree, you can teach or work in some areas, the PhD allows you to do advanced research, make original contributions to knowledge in your field, and access better job positions both in academia and in industry.

STEM careers offer a wide variety of job opportunities:

1. Software Development: Process of designing, creating, testing, and maintaining applications, programs, and computer systems to meet specific user needs.
2. Data Science and Analysis: The field combines statistics, programming, and machine learning to extract valuable information from large datasets and support decision-making.
3. Biomedical Engineering: Integration of engineering with health sciences to design and develop medical technologies such as prosthetics, diagnostic equipment, and monitoring devices.
4. Environmental Sciences: Study of the interaction between natural systems and the impact of human activity to promote environmental conservation and sustainability.
5. Robotics and Automation: Design and development of robots and automated systems to perform repetitive or dangerous tasks, increasing efficiency and precision in various industrial sectors.
6. Aerospace Engineering: Branch of engineering that focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites for air and space exploration and transportation.
7. Cybersecurity: Protection of computer systems, networks, and data against unauthorized access, cyber-attacks, and damage, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of information.
8. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Creation of computer systems that can learn, adapt, and make decisions autonomously, simulating human intelligence to solve complex problems.
9. Renewable Energy: Generation of energy from natural sources such as the sun, wind, and water, which are sustainable and do not produce polluting emissions.
10. Nanotechnology: Science that manipulates matter at the nanometric scale to develop new materials and devices with impro

1. Club Ability: https://www.clubability.org/ 

Club Ability is an organization dedicated to empowering families through STEM education and digital literacy. Their programs are bilingual and are delivered both virtually and in person at libraries, school districts, and at their headquarters in Bountiful. Children and adults from 7 years old participate, who enjoy a complete experience that includes classes, educational field trips, scholarships, access to devices, graduation ceremonies, and exhibitions with role models, especially of Hispanic origin, to inspire students to pursue a career in STEM.

In addition, Club Ability organizes the “Triumph in Technology” conference, an event that provides opportunities for everyone to be an active part of the creation and development of technology. The organization has been recognized with the Governor’s Medal in Science and Technology, which highlights its commitment to education and community development in the technological field.

1. Women Tech Council (WTC): https://www.womentechcouncil.com/ 

A national organization based in Utah that promotes the economic impact of women in technology through mentoring, networking, and professional visibility. It focuses on building inclusive tech environments and supporting career growth from K-12 to executive roles. Key initiatives include SheTech, a program that engages high school girls in hands-on STEM experiences, and the Women Tech Awards, which recognize and celebrate the achievements of women leaders in tech.

1. Latinas in Tech Utah: https://latinasintech.org/chapter/utah 

A local branch of a larger organization that supports Latina women in technological fields.

1. SHPE Per College: https://shpe.org/ 

SHPE is a national organization that empowers the Hispanic community in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). It provides scholarships, professional development, and networking opportunities for Hispanic students and professionals in engineering, science, and mathematics.

1. Silicon Slopes: https://www.siliconslopes.com/ 

Silicon Slopes is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports the technology and startup ecosystem in Utah. Its goal is to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in the region.

1. BioHive: https://www.biohive.com/ 

BioHive is an initiative focused on growing the life sciences and health innovation sector in Utah. It supports biotechnology, medical device, and health technology companies in the state.

1. Utah STEM Action Center: https://stem.utah.gov/ 

The Utah STEM Action Center is a state government initiative that promotes and enhances STEM education and workforce development in Utah. It provides resources, programs, and support for students, educators, and industry partners.

1. Tech-Moms: https://www.tech-moms.org/ 

This program in Utah is designed to help women, especially mothers, transition into technology careers. It offers a nine-week foundational course covering basic coding, cybersecurity, and data science. The program aims to provide a supportive environment with flexible schedules and childcare options, ensuring that being a mother isn’t a barrier to entering the tech industry. Tech-Moms is offered at various institutions in Utah, such as Weber State University and Utah Valley University, and has helped many women find new career paths in technology.

1. Rosie Project: https://www.rosieproject.org/ 

It was born as an initiative to eliminate barriers to job access for military spouses, a challenge identified by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Its main goal is to ensure that these individuals can access well-paid careers that are portable, meaning they can maintain and develop them regardless of where they are reassigned (PCS). As a change agent in the technology industry, the project seeks to transform the job landscape for these spouses, providing them with training opportunities and professional growth that adapt to the constant mobility of military life.

Juliette Bautista Barahona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliettebautista/ 

Juliette is a community leader advocating for diversity in STEM and is the Founder and Director of Club Ability. She was awarded the Community Leadership Award by the Women Tech Council and the Living Color Utah Award for actively working to increase diversity and inclusion in the tech sector.

Julieta Marchitelli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieta-marchitelli-9306b7269/ 

Julieta is currently a junior in the Manufacturing Engineering program at Weber State University. Her academic achievements have been recognized through several prestigious scholarships, including the EAST Dean’s Scholarship, Behnken Engineering Scholarship, and America First Scholarship. Julieta is an active member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), a school club where she works alongside other women in STEM to promote inclusion, professional growth, and mutual support. If you want to learn more about Weber State and the engineering program, you can contact Julieta at julietamarchitelli@hotmail.com.

Juana Borbolla: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juana-borbolla-0a7548215/ 

Juana is a student in the metallurgical engineering program at the University of Utah. She works as a laboratory technician and has also received an award from the UROP program, which helps her pay for her studies. If you want to learn more about how Juana obtained these opportunities, you can contact her at juanitaborbo@gmail.com.

Hector Arce: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hector-arce/ 

Héctor Arce is a computer engineering student at the University of Utah and a passionate track and field athlete. With experience in customer service at McDonald’s, he values perseverance and continuous improvement in both sports and academics. He is interested in pursuing a career in engineering while striving to achieve his personal best in running.

Ashley Lujan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-lujan-/ 

Ashley Luján is a senior computer science student at the University of Utah, recognized as a Women Tech Council 2023 Awardee and Google Latinx Student Leadership Summit Fellow. She actively supports diversity in technology through roles as a teaching assistant, ambassador for the Utah Center for Inclusive Computing, and community outreach leader for SHPE.

Lourdes Valdez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lourdes-valdez-838462117/ 

Lourdes is a Ph.D. student in the Biomedical Informatics program at the University of Utah. She received the T-15 training grant from the National Library of Medicine, a prestigious award that supports her research in this field. If you want to learn more about graduate studies or how to navigate the transition from undergraduate to graduate programs, you can contact Lourdes at lourdes.valdez@utah.edu.

Luciana Marchitelli:

Luciana is a pre-med student at Utah Valley University. Previously, she studied at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC), where she obtained her degree as a surgical technician. She currently works as a surgical technologist at a clinic in Salt Lake City. Her dream is to study medicine, and she is dedicating all her efforts to studying and working hard to achieve it. Luciana finished high school in Argentina.

Marlene Perez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marleneperez27/ 

mperez86@slcc.edu

Marlene Perez is an Admissions Advisor at Salt Lake Community College with experience in supporting diverse students’ academic success. She has a strong background in college preparation, mentoring, and educational guidance, having worked with low-income students at Utah Valley University and elementary students at Dual Immersion Academy.

Minhoru Cotache: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minhoru-cotache/ 

minhorucotacheleon@gmail.com

Minhoru is currently an Artificial Intelligence Consultant. A graduate of Brigham Young University with a degree in Computer Science, she is dedicated to developing AI projects that benefit immigrant businesses and non-profit projects. She has worked as an AI Architect, Software Engineer, and Product Manager. She has received various scholarships at BYU for excellence, departmental achievements, and accomplishments.