Why Did We Create Immigrants for STEM?
When we, as immigrants in the U.S., chose the STEM path, we quickly saw the need for a guiding force representing all those who first embarked on a journey to North America, and then another journey toward the main source of knowledge in our world. The underrepresentation of the immigrant force in STEM is not due to the percentage that took on the hard task — immigrants made up 19% of the STEM workforce in North America as of 2021 (National Science Board) — but rather due to the lack of a space where the immigrant experience and love for STEM can truly come together.
We know how hard it is to navigate this journey feeling unseen. The challenges are even greater when you adventure into such complexity alone. STEM can be intricate, especially for those of us coming from immigrant backgrounds, where opportunities feel limited and support systems are often unavailable.
Most of us do not know where to begin. And that is why this platform was born: to be the space we wish we had. A space where we can come together — as immigrants, as STEM students, as leaders. A place where stories are shared, resources are made available, opportunities to lead exist, and everyone is reminded they belong here.
Getting started is not easy. But if the staircase is there, you are already one step gone.
Why Immigrants for STEM?
Many immigrants dedicate their lives to science — often migrating to North America in pursuit of better opportunities and a chance to make their work known. Yet once here, they face multiple challenges, including language, culture, and the challenge of starting late in such a competitive system. Despite this, immigrants have made great contributions in science, math, technology, and engineering — like Diana Trujillo, a Colombian aerospace engineer at NASA who led the development of the Perseverance rover's robotic arm. We created Immigrants for STEM so no one feels alone in this struggle, because immigrating itself can already feel overwhelming, and building a path feels even harder with no support.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to create a space where immigrants in STEM feel seen, supported, and part of something greater — because your future starts here.
Our Vision and Goals
Our short-term goal is to create a network where immigrants feel seen — where they feel like they make a difference, share an interest, and perhaps become the reason someone else stays on their path, knowing they are never alone. We hope to offer the resources, stories, news, and opportunities many of us wished we had, helping others stay grounded in their interests, even when they seem out of reach. Beyond that, we aim to make every voice heard, every face seen, every talent recognized as worthy.
In the future, we envision a space that — thanks to your help — yes, your help — grows. A place where students mentor the next generation, where events across the country bring us together, and where our impact expands beyond North America. Above all, we dream of a community where every immigrant in STEM knows they are part of a network that supports them and encourages them to keep moving forward.
About the Founder
My name is Laura
Laura is a high school student, researcher, and proud Colombian in the U.S. with a deep love for science. Her hopes are set on majoring in Biochemistry and earning a Ph. D. in Immunology. Immigrants for STEM was born from a feeling of not belonging — a feeling of not knowing where to start. She created this website because she knows what it is like to arrive in a place full of opportunity, choose a path, and still feel lost when it comes to finding resources, mentorship, and a community. It is not hard because you are not capable, but rather because the space often lacks someone or something with which you can identify. As someone who has navigated AP classes, research programs, science fairs, national competitions, and part-time jobs — all while holding onto a future in STEM — she realized the need for a highly motivated and inclusive community. And when the challenge came, she chose to embark the journey once again. Now she hopes she builds something greater with all of you reading this. Maybe you are a first-gen student just like her. Maybe you are just getting started. This is a space for all of you — leaders, immigrants, scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. The space she once dreamed of — where everyone, including her, finally has a voice.
Join Our Team
Our project – Immigrants for STEM has just started. Hence, there are multiple positions available.
Immigrants for STEM is currently looking for passionate, STEM-centered, and creative students who want to help shape this project from the ground up. Whether you are a first-gen student, an immigrant in STEM, or someone who simply believes in our mission to make STEM more accessible, this space is for you.
We are currently inviting students to join our Executive Board in roles including event coordinator, research mentorship leader, and social media manager.
Join Our Community
Wish to be part of our community but do not know how to?
Here are three ways to get started today:
