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Welcome
Welcome to Upper Hand to College! We are an educational firm inspiring and empowering girls to seek careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). We support our students throughout their journey towards a STEM career; from grade school through college. We provide tutoring in math and science, fun engaging after school programs and college counseling for our students, grades 6-12. For our college students, we provide assistance seeking summer internships and scholarships. We serve students living in the areas of Ventura and Santa Barbara, California.
The economic future of California and the U.S. depends on developing a diverse and robust STEM workforce. Currently in the U.S. there are 3 million unfilled jobs that require STEM skills. Over the next ten years it is projected that STEM jobs will grow 17% compared to 9.8% for non-STEM jobs.
Few girls are pursuing careers in STEM. The Girl Scout Research Institute recently conducted a study which found that 17% of high school girls are interested in STEM. Yet, women account for only 20% of the bachelor’s degrees in engineering, computer science and physics. Furthermore, while women make up nearly 50% of the U.S. workforce, they hold less than 25% of the jobs in STEM.
Jobs in STEM pay well. According to federal data, the average annual income of a college graduate with a science degree is $74,000 compared to $59,000 for college graduates in other fields. Also, despite unemployment above 8%, many employers report having STEM –related jobs.
We want to help increase the number of women seeking careers in STEM. At Upper Hand to College, it is our mission to support the next generation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
About Us
Hi! Thanks for visiting our website. My name is Naiyma Houston. I am the founder and director of Upper Hand to College. I’m a scientific professional passionate about inspiring and empowering young women to seek careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).



