SANTA CLARITA – College of the Canyons students involved in the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program and also participate in Academic Excellence Workshops (AEW) have surpassed other College of the Canyons students in their mathematics accomplishment.

        A July 2005 evaluation of the Calculus II class at the college shows that students involved in the Academic Excellence Workshops did, on average, 17 percent better than the class average on exams and 15 percent higher on the final exam.

         The evaluation also shows that between 80 and 90 percent of students actively involved in AEW passed classes with a “C” or better, which is significantly higher than the 68 to 69 percent of
all other College of the Canyons students.

         Even before the evaluation was complete, students who attended MESA’s AEW for Calculus II indicated that their grades reflected the 1.5 hours twice a week spent in the workshops.

         The 2004-2005 academic year marked the fourth year of College of the Canyons’ Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program.

        MESA is a statewide academic enrichment program for historically under represented or educationally disadvantaged students in California.  Workshops, field trips, counseling and tutoring are offered, as well as a study center, education supplies, transfer assistance and academic and social support.

         The 135 College of the Canyons MESA students excelled by attending AEW, tutoring and counseling provided by MESA.

         By spending time outside of class studying with quality teachers and meeting with other students regularly, MESA students are able to do well in their classes.

         Twenty-four MESA students will continue their academic excellence as they transfer to four-year institutions in the fall of 2005. 

         To be part of MESA, students must major in math, engineering or science; qualify to enroll in intermediate algebra and be eligible for financial aid.

        Dr. Edel Alonso, MESA counselor says, “We welcome new students. We encourage students who are considering one of these challenging majors (math, engineering, science, computer science) to stop by the MESA center and fill out an application.”

        Information about College of the Canyons’ MESA program can be found at www.canyons.edu/offices/mesa or by calling (661) 362-3448.