In September 2015, Johnson & Johnson with Ethicon, ASPIRA, Inc. de Puerto Rico, and the University of Puerto Rico launched a BTE program in the San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico community. Targeting 50 students (rising tenth graders in school year 2015/16) enrolled at Jose Campeche High School, the three-year program will provide a variety of academic enrichment, career exploration, and higher education preparation opportunities in order to increase the number of students enrolling in higher education and pursuing health careers.
Key activities include:
- Academic Tutoring. Bi-weekly small group math and science tutoring sessions.
- BTE Challenge. Team-based academic competitions.
- Educational Workshops. Workshops aimed at improving students' study skills, use community / school resources, and time management, among others.
- Work Readiness Workshops. Session aimed at building key employability skills, such as interviewing, resume writing, communication, leadership, teamwork, and personal presentation.
- Career / Educational Counseling. Periodical sessions focused career exploration - especially in the health, mathematics, and science careers.
- Career Fairs. BTE student-organized career fairs at Jose Campeche High School for all enrolled students; fairs will feature post-secondary and higher education institutions, professionals in math, science and health related careers
- Lunch & Learns. Informal learning activities.
- Tours & Field Trips. Visits to Ethicon and various post-secondary institutions.
- Summer Camp. An intense learning activity during the summer holiday.
- College Entrance Exam Tutoring. Intensive College Entrance Exam (PEAU) review sessions.
- College Support. Workshops for parents and students on the college and financial aid application processes.
- Community Service. Each BTE student will participate in 15 hours to community service per year.
