JA Girls' Dream Fair - Yanfeng Automotive
The JA Girls' Dream Fair will inspire 200 seventh and eighth grade girls in the greater Holland area. In a one day format, JA will introduce these girls to women mentors who work in STEM related fields and show them the exciting possibilities for their future. As the research suggests this is key in increasing their pursuit of STEM careers. Guided by JA's It's My Future curriculum, girls will investigate, ask questions and be inspired to consider STEM for their future.
What?
Junior Achievement of the Michigan Great Lakes is hosting the next JA Girls' Dream Fair on March 27, 2018 at Yanfeng Automotive Interiors headquarters in Holland, MI. The focus of the event is to inspire 7th and 8th grade girls to explore STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) related careers.
Why?
The simple truth is that we have a growing nationwide STEM gap.
- There has been a steep decline in the number of female graduates with computer science degrees over the past three decades.
- National surveys find that nearly two-thirds of teenagers said they may be discouraged from pursuing STEM careers simply because they don't know anyone in these fields or they don't understand what people in these fields do.
- By ages 15, girls are twice as likely to become depressed as boys.
- Student interest in eighth grade, more so than achievement, has been found to be the strongest predictor of a student graduating with a STEM major in college.
As William Butler Yeats said, "Educating isn't the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." We need to light the fire and inspire our young people to explore the incredible world of STEM. We need to encourage young people from all backgrounds to participate in hands-on STEM projects. Girls need to hear real life stories from successful women who will inspire them, talk about obstacles they overcame and build their self esteem. These are chances to experience life-changing moments of discovery with mentors from the STEM professions.
2018 Sponsors
Lakeshore Venue Sponsor
Bright Future Sponsors
Dream Sponsors
Become a Sponsor!
Sponsorships for these events are critical for Junior Achievement to continue providing life-changing programs to students in our community. These programs are delivered at no cost to students. You can make a difference in the lives of these students by participating in this world-class event! Email Kelly Schincariol at kelly.schincariol@ja.org to learn how to sponsor a student for this event!
