CSTEP Research

Professor Reginald Dorcely teaches mathematics and coordinates undergraduate research activities for the Hostos Collegiate Science Entry Program (CSTEP), funded by the New York State of Education. Also, he is the Senior Personnel of the Mathematics and Computer Science Scholars Program (MACSS) sponsored by NSF. Based on his experience with several undergraduate research programs in the CUNY colleges, Professor Dorcely created a research manual for CSTEP students involved in research activities.

He believes that “the truth is deeply rooted in the lie as the lie in the truth.” Therefore, only systematic investigations can unmask the truth from the lie and the lie from the truth. Getting community college students involved in research is essential for their critical thinking and intellectual development. Hence, involvement in research activities can help hone students’ goal-setting, data collection, finding information on the internet, critical thinking, and planning and scheduling. As results, they can become independent learners. For this purpose, this manual introduces the CSTEP program and provides some research materials and statistical techniques to enhance students’ research skills. In collaboration with the Hostos Library, especially with the support of Professor Cassia Kisshauer, Adjunct lecturer at the library, professor Dorcely put together an OER version of this manual.
 
Many thanks go to visionary leaders such as Dr. Moise Koffi, the program director, Mrs. Diandra Jugmohan and Briseida Cortez, the Co-Director and CSTEP Coordinator, respectively. Finally, we are grateful for the support of Madeline Ford, the Hostos Community College Library director, and Ms. Catherine Lyons, our dear research workshop presenter.

The Hostos Community College Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program aims to serve first and second-year students through a four-part approach that provides the following:

1.    Tutoring support in gateway courses in Calculus, Discrete Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, preparing them for higher-level courses at senior colleges
2.    Research experiences and opportunities that include participation in conferences, posters, and oral presentations related to STEM careers
3.    Academic advisement, career and financial counseling, and four-year college/preparation workshops and seminars.
4.    Students participate in engineering software training throughout the year, preparing them for internships or science/ engineering majors.

In the summer, the STEP program, in collaboration with CSTEP, provides a six-week academic enrichment that focuses on services and activities to improve the skills and performance of Pre/first-year students in college-level courses leading to CSTEP-targeted professions. Also, the CSTEP program offers academic workshops and software training in STEM to prepare undergraduate students for the upcoming school year. In addition, the summer session offers several internship opportunities and educational and career exploration trips related to STEM careers.

• Must be enrolled in the CSTEP program

• Min GPA 2.7

• Full-Time student

• STEM major