Bridge to Enter Advanced Mathematics

The mission of Bridge to Enter Advanced Mathematics (BEAM) is to create pathways for underserved students to become scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists. Ask what it takes to become a professional musician, and no one will say its about being good at scales in band class. Ask what it takes to become a professional athlete, and no one will say its about being good at dodgeball in gym class. But ask what it takes to become a professional scientist, and some people will say its about passing high school algebra --- a misleading message given especially to underserved students. The secret thats kept from these kids is that high school algebra --- indeed, most high school classes --- are just not enough preparation for a STEM major. Professional scientists, engineers, and programmers all studied advanced material at enrichment programs growing up. For them, it wasnt a slog: they fell in love with it. They werent just excited about the vastness of space --- the...