STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is an important field in today’s growing society. STEM represents the innovation, creativity, and intelligence needed to improve the world. The Congressional Award commends any participant interested and involved in STEM-related activities, as the country needs more fresh, bright minds to learn from.
The Award wants to give special recognition to the participants who incorporate STEM-related activities when they earn their Award. Our STEM Stars initiative, in partnership with Ferring Pharmaceuticals, encourages a passion for STEM in young people. The Congressional Award invites participants to incorporate at least one STEM activity into their Award goals. STEM Stars receive an additional Award designation, a STEM Star pin, and are invited to STEM-focused events throughout the year.
STEM STAR RESOURCES
How to Earn a STEM Star
Would you like to earn a STEM Star? Read the guidelines for earning a STEM Star designation in conjunction with your Congressional Award.
STEM Stars Guidelines
Step 1: Identify your STEM activity and determine its program area.
STEM activities can be achieved through all four program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration.
Check out these examples of activities to get inspired:
Science- Being a volunteer researcher at a non for profit lab. Technology- Taking coding classes for personal development. Engineering- Learning how to build a computer on your own. Math- Volunteering as a math tutor.
Step 2: Keep track of your hours and months.
We recommend keeping a log of the hours you actively worked with a STEM activity. This will help you fill out your Record Book on Submittable.
A journal is also a useful way to reference any work in STEM you have done when submitting your Record Book, sharing your STEM Star Story for the Award, or even applying to college and jobs.
Step 3: Add your STEM activities to your Record Book on Submittable.
When submitting your Record Book for review on Submittable, be sure to say “yes” when prompted if you have completed any STEM activities. Make it clear in your goal settings that you were involved in a STEM activity.
If you need help submitting, be sure to check out our new Submittable Guide.
STEM Stars Toolkit
Get inspired with step-by-step instructions on becoming a STEM Star and ideas on how you can incorporate STEM into your activities!
STEM Stars Guidelines
Click on the Toolkit preivew below to download the full packet (3 pages):
Submit Your STEM Story
Have a STEM story of your own? Tell us how you're incorporating STEM into your Congressional Award for a social media spotlight!
Submit your STEM Story
Activity Checker
Check if your activity follows the Award guidelines!