Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES) is a rigorous academic enrichment program for promising high school seniors interested in studying and exploring careers in science, engineering, and entrepreneurship.
During six weeks in the summer before their senior year, participants tackle advanced academic challenges, develop the skills necessary to achieve success in an increasingly globalized economy, and forge relationships with individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The program is scholarship-based, with students paying only for transportation to and from MIT.
Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES) supports MIT’s mission to provide students with the intellectual stimulation of a diverse campus community and to satisfy the nation’s need for a diverse pool of highly qualified scientists and engineers. Our goal is for participants to:
- Develop critical problem-solving skills
- Understand the foundational academic principles required for success in their chosen fields
- Gain an introduction to the scope of possibilities in engineering, entrepreneurship, and science careers
- Build confidence in their academic and leadership abilities.
- Learn to work productively and creatively in a increasingly diverse nation and connected world
MITES students select five courses out of 14 that closely align with their interests and aptitude. They are expected to become proficient in each subject and to develop skills to comfortably and creatively solve complex problems. Students also share and celebrate their cultures, affirming that cultural diversity and academic achievement are mutually beneficial.
MITES graduates emerge from the program more knowledgeable, skilled, confident, motivated, and with an extended network of friends and allies. Strong students already, they benefit from tackling a high level of academic challenge and gain confidence to succeed in science and engineering at top universities.
Approximately 30 percent of all MITES graduates have matriculated at MIT and many go on to other prestigious colleges and universities including Harvard, Stanford, and Columbia. Most of these students would not have considered these highly selective institutions had they not participated in MITES.
The graduation rate of MIT’s MITES alumni is approximately 12 percentage points higher than that of other minority students, and many MITES students attend graduate programs at MIT and elsewhere. Over the years, MITES has developed a distinguished alumni base, including leading engineers, scientists, physicians, professors, and entrepreneurs.
