Virginia Tech NSBE Pre-College Initiative
The Virginia Tech NSBE chapter is proud to present their PCI program, which is sponsored, by Virginia Tech's National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity (CEED)
Investigators, all around the United States, have asserted that the transition to college can be a devastating and challenging experience, particularly for African-Americans and other minorities in engineering fields at Predominately White Institutions (PWIs). The College of Engineering, like comparable engineering schools, has its challenges as it relates to the environment, minorities, and retention. One problem is that the number of minorities seeking enrollment in engineering is relatively low.
Therefore, it is imperative that engineering colleges develop innovative programs, such as Pre-College Initiative (PCI), to address not only internal challenges (e.g., retention) but also NSBE pipeline challenges (e.g., increasing the number of students interested in engineering). During high school, it is important for students to excel academically and be prepared for the rigors of college-level academic life. Through activities and information sessions, the program is geared to prepare both students and parents for the college application process. This program also provides exposure to the possibilities and applications of engineering and science, as well as raising cultural awareness amongst its participants. The program’s aim is to increase the number of African American students who are prepared to enter college, moreover, qualified to pursue majors in engineering, math, science, and other technical disciplines.
PCI is targeted towards African American students from 9th – 12th grade to provide encouragement, support and assistance in their pursuit of a college education. This year, the program has over 150 students from high schools in the Southwest part of Virginia (areas including Radford, Roanoke, Martinsville, Christiansburg, Patrick County, Franklin County, Lynchburg, and Rocky Mount).