Diversity and Inclusion Master Plan

CSTEP The primary objective of the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) project at SUNY College of Optometry is to increase the number of historically underrepresented minority and economically disadvantaged students in the STEM profession, particularly in the growing and dynamic profession of optometry. The goal of the program is to: • Expose, attract, and recruit qualified students to the profession of optometry; • Assist students applying to SUNY and to other colleges of optometry; • Assist students in the preparation to taking the Optometry Admission Test (OAT), the entrance exam required as part of the application and admission process; • Provide career counseling; • Provide students with scientific research opportunities to prepare them for graduate/professional school; • Provide science, math, study and time management skills enrichment so that students are better prepared for the rigors of professional school; • Provide social and cultural services to SUNY Optometry students (who completed CSTEP) to enhance their morale and camaraderie, while monitoring their academic progress and clinical skills; • Assist SUNY Optometry students (who completed CSTEP) before and upon graduation with licensing exams and career placement. Internship Program: This on-site Internship Program gives students a firsthand look at what optometry is all about. The program takes place two times each year, once during the winter and once during the spring/early summer. Each session runs 8 hours per day for 2 consecutive weeks. Participating CSTEP interns are assigned to work with fourth-year SUNY Optometry Doctor of Optometry students in their own clinical rotations. Summer Academic Program (SAP): The SAP is an eight- week gateway course, “Introduction to Vision Science.” Taught by SUNY faculty, 30 CSTEP students learn about a wide range of topics pertaining to optometry and eye health, including Ocular anatomy, Diabetes, Glaucoma, Visual Perception and more. Upon successful completion of this program, students earn two graduate level credits that can be transferred to their home institutions. According to a post- SAP survey, students’ interest in optometry as a career has increased as a direct result of SAP; in 2016, 95.24% of SAP survey respondents indicated that the SAP increased their interest in the field. CSTEP Symposium: This program is designed to have students explore the profession of optometry including the latest admissions information, OAT updates, and the latest trends, issues, and technological and research advances in the field. It’s also an opportunity for students to reunite with past CSTEP participants, build relationships with SUNY Optometry faculty and staff, and participate in other educational workshops. According to a post- Symposium survey, students’ interest in optometry as a career has increased as a direct result of Symposium; 90.48% of CSTEP Symposium attendees rated it as being above average or excellent. These goals are primarily achieved through three flagship programs: the Internship Program, the Summer Academic Program, and the CSTEP Symposium.

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