The Florida Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program, an initiative of the University of South Florida College of Education, hosted
its first USF Campus Day on November 8, welcoming high school students from partner
schools in Pinellas and Pasco School Districts to the USF Tampa campus. The immersive
experience sought to inspire and engage students in USF's science, technology, engineering,
and mathematics (STEM) degree programs. Students networked and connected with faculty
and current students and participated in campus tours highlighting STEM careers, college
readiness, and academic pathways.
"It was amazing to see all our MESA students and advisors together in one place for
the first time! After months of planning, it was rewarding to watch MESA students
experience USF and explore the wide range of programs available on campus," said Justice Palavra, the associate director of Florida MESA and a doctoral student in the USF Curriculum
and Instruction in Science Education program. "Their excitement for MESA and the USF
community was inspiring and a powerful reminder of the importance of our work."
Pinellas Park High School students taking a group photo at Florida MESA's USF Campus Day.
Anthony Rolle, the dean of the USF College of Education, and David Rosengrant, the campus dean at USF St. Petersburg, were instrumental in launching the first and only MESA chapter in Florida. The program's mission is to provide enriching STEM experiences to students, helping them succeed in related college and career pathways. MESA events play a crucial role in helping students envision themselves in STEM programs and careers, including roles as future STEM educators.
“I first participated in this program back in 1981... For me, participating in MESA was instrumental to my success in college and graduate school,” said Rolle in an opening statement during the November 8 event. “When I arrived here [USF College of Education] four years ago, one of my primary goals was to start the MESA program, so I am very excited to see six high schools participating in this first year.”
"Many of our MESA advisors are science teachers who serve as role models for students,
embodying our emphasis on STEM education careers. By working closely with advisors
who are actively engaged in teaching STEM, students can see firsthand how impactful
these roles are," said Palavra. "They learn that STEM isn't just about becoming an
engineer or scientist—it's also about guiding others toward these fields."
Students participated in fun and educational trivia during the lunch and networking
portion of the day hosted in the USF Anchin Center. There, they also asked questions
about programs and sought advice from current USF students and staff.
"MESA gives our students opportunities they haven't had before," said Adam Wolford,
a science teacher and MESA advisor at Boca Ciega High School. "It was neat for our
students to see all the different aspects of a college campus and ask questions...
This has really lit the spark or match for them to be excited about progressing their
education."
Justice Palavra playing trivia with students attending Florida MESA's USF Campus Day.
"I hope students left feeling empowered and confident that they belong in a college
environment and can see themselves thriving at USF," said Palavra. "I want them to
know that MESA offers experiences like USF Campus Day, providing authentic opportunities
to explore their pathways in STEM and higher education with the support they need
to succeed."
The David C. Anchin Center is now working to help implement the program across the Suncoast area, including
two upcoming events, Demo Day and MESA Day, in Spring 2025. These events will showcase
student prototypes designed to address real-world community issues. This year’s theme,
Taking Action! Designing for Sustainable Communities, encourages students to create innovative solutions that promote sustainability and
positive environmental change.
The Equinix Foundation has awarded a generous $7,000 donation to USF to support the MESA Schools Program.
This funding, part of the Equinix Foundation's WeGive program, which aims to bridge
the digital divide and create a more accessible, equitable, and interconnected digital
future, will greatly contribute to MESA's continued growth in the Tampa Bay area.
For more information about Florida MESA, please contact Justice Palavra.