Science Bound and DMPS: A Parent’s Perspective
Recent Roosevelt grad and soon-to-be Iowa State freshman Xarius Mickens.
Science Bound is Iowa State University’s premier pre-college program to increase the number of ethnically diverse Iowa students who pursue college degrees in agricultural, scientific, technology, engineering and mathematics. DMPS students in Science Bound may begin participation in the program as early as 7th grade. Iowa State University provides a range of support through the program, from professional development for teachers to workshops for parents to summer programs for students. Students who successfully complete the high school program, meet admission requirements to Iowa State University and pursue a STEM degree at ISU receive a full tuition scholarship from the university.
What do parents think of Science Bound? Earlier this summer our colleagues at ISU interviewed Angela Mickens, whose son Xarius graduated from Roosevelt this year and is planning to major in chemical engineering at Iowa State. Mickens spoke about how the program supported his academic interests, taught a good work ethic, and provide positive role models.
ISU’s interview is reprinted below. For more information about Science Bound, visit their web site.
Angela Mickens, surgical nurse at Iowa Methodist Medical Center, and parent of four children, encouraged her youngest child, Xarius Mickens (Roosevelt ’16) to participate in the Science Bound program when he was invited as a 7th grader at Moulton Extended Learning Center.
“He always showed an interest and intellect in science and math. I knew this program could groom and support him in his academic endeavors,” said Mickens.
Mickens wanted Xarius to participate in Science Bound because it would give him the opportunity to explore his options in science and math.
Xarius has had many positive experiences in Science Bound, according to Mickens. One of the summer programs that benefited Xarius was “Learn and Earn”.
Mickens said “the program gave him a format of what society expects: positive work ethics and earning what you deserve.”
Mickens believes the Science Bound program helped her son become more comfortable socially as well.
“I have seen Xarius become more engaged with the world around him since participating with the program,” said Mickens.
Science Bound has also helped Xarius learn and develop skills that will benefit him in his career.
“One skill I hope that Xarius will gain from participating in the program is proper presentation of self, in which the world can see what he can contribute as a human being,” said Mickens.
Additionally, she shared that the opportunity that Science Bound offers provides students with academic and personal support, which includes access to financial resources and professional references.
“The men being present to teach my young man has had the most profound effect of all,” added Mickens.
“Xarius will be attending Iowa State University in the fall of 2016 and will major in chemical engineering,” said his proud mother. “I see him accomplishing his degree in chemical engineering and working for a pharmacological company of his choice.”
