SUMMER Fellows FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you a Prospective Fellow or a Summer Program Provider with questions about the Summer STEM Fellowship? Read below and keep us posted if you want to learn more.  

For Prospective Fellows

Q: What is the Summer STEM Fellowship?  

A: The Fellowship equips college students who are working in youth-serving summer program with the tools and training they need to deliver hands-on STEM activities, serve as mentors, and connect with youth in their home communities. Fellows participate in workshops to build skills in youth development, facilitation, and STEM programming, ensuring they bring fresh ideas and energy to your program. 

Q: What is a youth-serving summer program? 

A: There are an amazing variety of youth-serving summer programs across Wyoming that provide care and high-quality enrichment experiences. Examples include Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Clubs, 4-H, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, museums, arts organizations, churches and more! Many communities administer youth-serving summer programs through the school district, parks and recreation, and libraries. Access our interactive map to explore programs in your community: wyafterschoolalliance.org/interactive-map.   

Q: What are the training dates and times? 

• Saturday, April 25: A one-day in-person training in Laramie at the Innovation Wyrkshop, a makerspace on the UW campus.  
• May – June: Up to six weekly virtual 60-90-minute sessions.
• Mid-August: A one-day in-person closing session in Laramie  
•  Note: Fellows may qualify for expense reimbursement related to travel.  
  

Q: Why is there a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)?  

A: The program is supported in part through the Million Girls Moonshot, to spur actions and solutions that change the way girls engage in STEM and inspire them to become builders, innovators, makers, and problem solvers.  

Q: What if I’m interested in working with young people, but don’t love STEM subjects? 

A: It’s amazing how STEM can show up in everyday interactions! We will help make the invisible visible by focusing on building creativity, problem-solving, and exploring different solutions. Through our fun hands-on workshops and practice, you will come to see that even if you don’t love STEM, you can think like a designer, engineer, and critical thinker who supports kids doing the same. Check out this resource to help broaden what you might think is a STEM mindset: milliongirlsmoonshot.org/engineering-mindset.

Q: How will you support me during the summer? 

A: Coaching and networking opportunities will be available during the summer. And Fellows will receive funds to purchase supplies for activities you would like to lead.  At the end Fellows also receive a stipend for their time and participation.   

Q: Do I have to have a job with a youth-serving summer program?   

A: Yes! We do expect Fellows to be participating in a paid or volunteer position. 

Q: Can you connect me with a youth-serving summer program in my community?  

A: We would love to help you make connections with local organizations! There is currently interest from a program in Jackson and Greybull, with interest from other communities growing daily! If your community isn’t on this list – we’re here to help.  

Q: This sounds like a good fit for me! How do I apply?  

Complete the simple application that will help us get to know you! Click here.

For Summer Programs 

Q: Why would I want a Summer STEM Fellow on staff?  

A:  Boost Your Program’s Capacity: Fellows bring new skills, resources, and materials to enhance summer programming.  Invest in Your Staff: They’ll gain professional development and leadership experience that they can bring back to your program. Strengthen Community Ties: Fellows inspire local youth to see themselves as STEM-capable and explore future career possibilities.  

 Q: Will trainings and meetings compete with our program time?

A: We hope to limit program disruptions! The two one-day trainings are planned outside the traditional summer program schedule.  

Q: What are the expectations for meetings during the summer? 

A: Weekly virtual sessions will be scheduled in May and June; we hope Fellows will be available to participate in these learning activities. Specific days and times will be communicated to the program when we land on the schedule later this spring.   

Q: How much will Fellows be expected to lead in the classroom? 

A: Each program has different needs, but we would hope participating Fellows would have leadership opportunities in the classroom to apply what they’ve learned. We plan to provide some resources for Fellows to purchase supplies for activities they would like to lead.  

Q: What are the expectations for support, coaching, and feedback from our full-time staff? 

A: We would expect the same level of support, coaching, and feedback you would give to all seasonal staff. However, we hope that the Fellows will seek out opportunities for support, coaching, and feedback. Fellows are invited to connect with each other and mentors from past cohorts to receive support and mentorship.  

Q: Are there avenues for us to recruit summer staff through this program or are participants already committed to a program? 

We hope to be able to match programs and participants!  If you already have someone committed to work for you this summer, this might be a great additional opportunity for them to earn a little extra income (we provide each Fellow with a stipend) and build a community of peers.  

 Q: I have more questions! 

 A: We’d be happy to set up a meeting to talk through your questions, needs, and ideas! Contact Emily Vercoe, emilyv@wycf.org or 307-721-8300.

Q. I know someone who would be a great fit! How do I get them involved?

A: Nominate them today! Simply fill out our simple nomination form. Click here.