EYH 2017 – ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL CONFERENCE!

EYH—it’s all about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Education and Careers!

Lake Washington Branch of AAUW has been involved in EYH for high school girls for over 30 years. We begin planning for the event each September. The event utilizes the Bellevue College Campus during the week the college is on spring break. The 2017 conference was held on March 24. As in past years, girls in grades 9 – 12 registered from schools located not only from the Bellevue College “catchment” area, but also from many miles away. The middle school EYH, sponsored by Kirkland-Redmond and Issaquah Branches was held the following day.

Fifty-eight workshops presented by over 100 professional women in STEM-based careers received high marks for interesting and informative hands-on sessions. We’re proud to have accomplished our major goals: to introduce young women to a variety of STEM-based careers and increase their interest in continuing their education in order to have the most choices for a productive, fulfilling life. EYH is an important way for us to be involved in encouraging young women to “THINK STEM” careers. We KNOW we’re having a long-term impact on many, many young lives!

Girls get to experience three workshops with choices from architecture to zoology. More than 60 volunteers–members, friends, and family– help with check-in and registration of girls and presenters and guide them to the workshops on campus. Counselors and interested parents have a companion program which includes attending one of the workshops. In addition, there is a Career Fair during the lunch break for students and adults that features exhibits by STEM-related businesses and higher education organizations.

Next year’s EYH is scheduled for Friday, March 23, 2018. We are always looking to recruit new presenters; so, as you meet women professionals whose careers are STEM-based, please mention EYH to them. The 2017 brochure will be posted on the branch web site until December.

Jo Herber and Sandy Heidergott, EYH 2017 Conference Co-chairs

STEM…through positive hands-on experiences