May 31, 2005

Science Enrichment: Application Deadline June 7 For
UCSD-SDSU American Indian Youth Summer Program

By Michael Dabney

Classes, workshops and field trips that expose participants to computer technology, research techniques, biomedical and physical sciences, wellness and American Indian culture is the focus of the Young Native Scholars Program at UCSD and SDSU. The deadline for applying is June 7.

The program is sponsoring a free summer residential experiences at these campuses from July 16-30 for high school students in grades nine through 12 – especially those of American Indian heritage. The Young Native Scholars Program is sponsored by the American Indian Academic Outreach & Enrichment initiative (a program of The BRIDGE non-profit organization) in collaboration with UCSD, SDSU and San Diego tribal communities.

Students will earn three units of college credit (5-10 units high school transferable) from Palomar Community College for their participation. At least a 2.3 grade point average is required to apply.

Now in its fifth year, the Young Native Scholar Program, with its “holistic approach” to education, has gained both a statewide and regional reputation as a leading source for college motivation and preparation among American Indian students.

Its summer program is also accepting applications for mentors and counselors. (Mentors must be college graduates or undergraduates, and counselors must be graduate students or higher.)

In addition to residing on the campus of UCSD and SDSU this summer, participants will stay overnight on San Diego Indian reservations such as Viejas, Barona, La Jolla, Rincon and Pala.

The program is supported by a host of other community partners, among them: the UCSD School of Medicine; Cal State San Marcos; the Indian Health Council, Inc. of the Native American Research Center for Health (NARCH); Pala Band of Mission Indians, Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, Barona Band of Mission Indians, and La Jolla Band of Luiseno Indians. For more information on this program, including how to apply this summer, visit: www.NativeScholars.org, or email mchavez@nativescholars.org.

Media Contact: Michael Dabney, (858) 822-0566