Class of 2025 and 2026
Welcome to AISS
Our Mission is to guide high-achieving, economically disadvantaged high school students interested in pursuing a career in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields. Our goal is to break the cycle of poverty.
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Achieving Greatness: Award Winning Video
"Achieving Greatness" – A film by Kristina Chatow that follows the inspiring journeys of three families whose lives were transformed by a nonprofit dedicated to equipping economically disadvantaged students with the skills and mindset to attend college and succeed in life.
WHAT WE DO!
The Achievement Institute for STEM Scholars (AISS) is dedicated to preparing high-achieving, underrepresented high school students for success in STEM careers. Our program provides intensive academic support, hands-on research experiences, professional mentorship, and college preparation to help students excel in higher education and beyond. By connecting scholars with industry leaders, AISS creates opportunities for the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.
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Our Impact
Through strategic partnerships with schools, industry leaders, and community organizations, AISS has created a lasting impact by fostering innovation, leadership, and excellence in the STEM fields. This report highlights the accomplishments of the current class and celebrates the achievements of our scholars since 2001.
775 People
Served
Volunteers, parents, partners, mentors, scholars, alumni, etc.
100% Attend
College
All AISS scholars attend college, equipped with the skills to excel in STEM.
95% First Generation Students
We help first-gen scholars break barriers and achieve their full potential in higher education and beyond.
99% College Graduation Rate
99% of AISS scholars earn their college degrees, proving the power of mentorship and opportunity.
214 Graduated
Scholars
Since 2001, AISS has empowered 274 scholars to excel in STEM education and careers.
78% Working in
STEM Fields
78% of AISS scholars are pursuing careers in STEM, driving innovation and impact.
Become an AISS Scholar!
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Are you a high school student passionate about STEM? The Achievement Institute for STEM Scholars (AISS) is now accepting applications for our Class of 2027 cohort!
Join a prestigious program that provides mentorship, hands-on STEM experiences, college preparation, and scholarship opportunities to help you succeed in your academic and professional journey.​
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For more information about our program or the recruitment process, join our recruitment session.
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DEADLINE: April 12, 2025
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Ready to Apply?
Alumni Testimonials
With the help of AISS, I can confidently say that the sponsorship I got through them before even starting college, Gloria and Richard Strayer's donations helped me participate in a summer program that got me knowing the ins and outs of the UCI campus better than some of the 4th year students!
Jaqueline Vargas, Aspiring Lead Biomedical Engineer
Class of 2019
Why We Need AISS
 Our CommitmentAISS proposes to maintain its impressive high school graduation and college acceptance rates while doubling the number of scholars we serve. We anticipate program outcomes will increase the number of economically disadvantaged students who major and work in STEM fields. |  Our OutcomeTo date, 100% of the 214 scholars who completed our program, graduated from high school with a 3.5 GPA or better. They were accepted to and have graduated from or are attending a four-year college or university. |  Our CommunityAISS continues to track and engage with our alumni well after they graduate from our program. They proudly and enthusiastically return to volunteer with current scholars as guest speakers, writing and math instructors, mentors, and even board members. |
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