STEM Advantage

STEM Advantage is a nonprofit organization based in Huntington Beach, California, dedicated to empowering first-generation and low-income college students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). We provide a comprehensive 360-degree program, including paid internships, mentorships, and scholarships, to open doors and support students who often lack the same opportunities as their peers. Our mission is to level the playing field and create a diverse pipeline of skilled STEM talent for businesses. We partner with students attending the California State University (CSU) system, the largest and most ethnically diverse university system in the nation.

STEM Advantage’s impact is significant, with a 100% graduation rate for our Scholars and an average starting salary of $75,000. We’ve awarded over $3.1 million in scholarships to date, and 72% of our Scholars are first-generation college students. We foster a strong community, providing a sense of belonging and networking opportunities.

STEM Advantage works to close the opportunity gap in STEM by providing access to networks, employment, economic and social mobility often limited to students attending elite universities. We offer our Scholars program to students earning a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field at eight California State University (CSU) campuses in Southern California, including the greater Los Angeles region, Orange County, and San Diego.