The GEMS Camp Incorporated

About

The GEMS Camp (Girls interested in Engineering, Mathematics, and Science) is building confidence in racially and ethnically minoritized girls, especially those from underserved communities, by providing quality, holistic, and culturally-relevant summer and school year STEM programming experiences. Powered by our mission - to change the face of those who can access and excel in STEM studies and careers - we address equity challenges in STEM education by empowering teen girls to thrive in safe, informal learning environments that provide holistic programs emphasizing academics, career, creativity, leadership, and service - our 5 Karat Gems approach. Today, we offer four core programs: (1) Summer Camp Experiences, (2) STEM Pathways Institute & Leadership Council, (3) Global STEM Travel Experience, and now, (4) School-Year Experience.Summer Camp (For Rising 7th-9th graders):Our one-week, flagship university-based sleepaway program serves as an initiation into the 5 Karat Gem Framework. Girls are recruited from schools within targeted zip codes. “Gems” or campers immerse themselves in STEM learning through project-based learning, peer mentoring, career, leadership development, and wellness activities. They also forge bonds of sisterhood.STEM Pathways Institute and Internship (For Rising 10th graders):A year-long program focusing on college and career readiness. Girls exiting the summer camp program receive leadership coaching, resume writing, career mapping, and self-assessments utilizing psychometric tools. Monthly virtual meetings culminate in a paid internship at a summer camp location.Global STEM Travel (For Rising 11th-12th graders):A two-week international venture to promote STEM industry exposure, independence, and cultural appreciation.School-Year Experience (Launched Fall 2023 for 6th-8th graders):This innovative program will provide racially minoritized girls in South Dallas with year-round, community-centered, culturally relevant STEM education. Drawing inspiration from our summer camp's success, we aim to bolster their confidence in math and science, emphasizing design thinking, student-led initiatives, and more.