Native American Science & Engineering Program (NASEP)

NASEP is a year-long program designed to provide Native American high school students a future in higher education focused on Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) fields. The program connects students with academic professionals and industry representatives from STEM-related interests. Through one on-one mentoring and college preparation with university affiliates, students are also able to engage with current university students and NASEP alumni. NASEP provides students tools of success to learn about college admissions, academic success, and the variety of STEM academic and career pathways. Here are a few student highlights from the 2017 summer cohort.

“My personal views on the importance of water leads far back into my heritage, and represents who I am as a Native American. Water is a trail of sacred history that plays a role for various tribes. I was taught from the beginning that water is a way of living, and shouldn’t be abused. I like to think of water as a way of using your heart and mind together from teachings and experiences passed on from generation to generation.” - Chenelle Harris is White Mountain Apache & a Junior at Blue Ridge High School, Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona

“NASEP has given me knowledge, connections, friends, and new experiences. I have been given valuable information about what it truly takes to not only get into college, but what it takes to succeed in college. I met and connected with many leading professionals in their field, and learned some key steps on how to become successful like them. The other NASEP participants have grown to become close friends. To have the support, encouragement, and shared experiences – a bond has strengthened which helps me grow as a person.“ - William Martin is Hopi & a Junior at University High School, Phoenix, AZ

“NASEP is an amazing program that has opened many opportunities for me as a student and a person. This program became a motivator in my daily life to strive for more and to accomplish great things. NASEP has enlightened me about how severe and important our water is. It has motivated me to research and try to help in this growing problem. I’m now setting my goals to do great things in the world so I can impact not just my community but all communities in amazing ways, I know that I can make a difference and NASEP has given me many resources and ideas I can use to reach my goals.” - Jacob Utzler is Navajo & a Junior at Rehoboth Christian School, Crownpoint, NM

“NASEP really gave me an insight to the STEM world by exposing me to many opportunities and introducing me to many professionals who work in the STEM field. NASEP gave me the motivation and courage to take my steps towards the sciences, and the support needed for my long journey towards my educational and career goals. NASEP helped me find my voice and allowed me to express the person I am and want to be. I would like to use my future degree to work on the Hopi reservation to inform my Hopi community about many health issues that can cause harm to our people.” - Nevaeh Nez is Navajo & Hopi & a Junior at Flagstaff High School, Flagstaff, AZ