In February 2018, Johnson & Johnson and McNeil partnered with ASIPIRA de Puerto Rico, University of Puerto Rico, Humacao Campus, Universidad del Turabo, Gurabo Campus, and Florencia García High School launched a new BTE program in the Las Piedras, Puerto Rico community.
Targeting 50 tenth graders attending Florencia García High School in school year 2017-2018 with a minimum GPA of 2.00 and 100% attendance, the three-year program provided 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 included:
- Academic Challenge. Hands-on science and math experiences focused on real world challenges.
- Career Awareness & Job Shadowing. Company tours and visits to McNeil and other Health/STEM organizations; vocational interest inventory workshops; and job shadowing opportunities
- Career Coaching. Periodical sessions with McNeil Volunteers focused on Health / STEM related careers.
- Career Talks with community-based Health / STEM professionals.
- College Board Exam Preparation. Intensive College Entrance Exam (PEAU) review sessions.
- College/University Exposure. Post-secondary and higher education institutions tours, as well as participation in a college-based math summer program and lab experiments and/or projects.
- College/University Application Support. Workshops for parents and students on the college and financial aid application processes.
- Community Engagement Activities. Community service workshops and projects.
- Socio-emotional and Career Readiness Workshops focused on soft skills and employability skills.
