​Overview of the Program

Changing Norms offers a year-round, multi-faceted program that combines academic enrichment, career exploration, hands-on STEM experiences, cultural immersion, and mentorship. We focus on exposing students to new opportunities and guiding them toward academic and career success. We ensure that every young person we serve has the skills, experiences, and support network to excel in college and beyond. Through unique programming like our annual STEM Camp on Martha’s Vineyard and year-long college and career preparation sessions, we provide comprehensive guidance for our scholars.

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Key Components of Our Approach

1. Workforce Development Pipeline: Our program is designed to build a sustainable pathway for inner city youth, guiding them from high school through college and into the workforce. By focusing on essential skills, networking, and career exploration, we prepare students for high-demand STEM and leadership roles.

2. Hands-On Learning and Cultural Enrichment: Changing Norms integrates STEM education with cultural and personal growth activities. Our STEM Camp on Martha's Vineyard is a flagship program where students participate in activities like marine biology exploration, sustainability workshops, and interactive tours at MIT and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute.

3. Public-Private Partnerships: Through collaboration with companies, public institutions, and legislative bodies, Changing Norms amplifies resources and creates a support network for students, enhancing the impact of our programs and driving systemic change.

4. No-Cost Access: We ensure that financial barriers are removed by providing all programming free of charge to students, allowing them to focus on their education without financial concerns.

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Program Structure and Day-to-Day Engagement

Our program consists of both year-long and week-long engagements designed to foster student growth, leadership, and career readiness.

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Year-Round Engagement:

• Monthly Topics: Each month, students engage in workshops on topics like College Process Review, Financial Literacy, FAFSA, Scholarships and Internships, Digital Profile Building, and more. These sessions provide critical guidance in preparing for higher education and career pathways.

• Mentorship and Career Exploration: Students are paired with mentors in their field of interest who provide career advice, support for college applications, and leadership training. They also participate in internship placements that give them real-world experience in STEM fields.

• College and Career Pipeline Development: From high school to freshman year in college to post-college, we work with students to ensure they are well-prepared for each transition. Our pipeline includes mentorship, internship opportunities, and career-readiness support.

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STEM Camp on Martha’s Vineyard:

• Week-Long Immersive Experience: Each summer, Changing Norms hosts an intensive STEM camp on Martha’s Vineyard, combining academic rigor with cultural enrichment.

• Sample Day:

  • Morning: MIT Tour, Island Grown Farms sustainability workshop/ civic engagement sessions and gleaning for local panties.

  • Afternoon: Marine Biological Labs, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, African American Heritage Tours, or networking events with industry professionals.

  • Evening: Community Building Time (CBT), journaling, mentorship dinners, and reflection activities.

 

Year-End Capstone Project

• The year-end capstone project provides students with an opportunity to integrate and demonstrate their learning from each monthly topic. The project culminates in a presentation to mentors, parents, and community stakeholders, focused on showcasing individual growth, career aspirations, and contributions to their communities.

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Impact Reports

• 2025

• 2024

• 2023

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