Celebrate 25 Years of SMASH
Help students build computer science skills and prepare for college and careers. Donate and receive a SMASH25 Community Champion digital badge to share on LinkedIn.
Help students build computer science skills and prepare for college and careers. Donate and receive a SMASH25 Community Champion digital badge to share on LinkedIn.
SMASH’s free STEM programs help high school students explore computer science, build projects, connect with mentors, and prepare for college and careers.
SMASH RESIDENTIAL
Engaging scholars from all backgrounds through an intense STEM-focused curriculum to pursue STEM degrees and careers.
SMASH seniors intend to major in CS at 1.5x the rate of the national average (72% vs 45%)
SMASH alumni complete a major in CS at 2x the rate of the national average (72% vs 34%)
98% of SMASH scholars mastered computer science technical skills assessed at the end of the program
96% of SMASH scholars mastered computational thinking skills assessed at the end of the program
SMASH Residential connects high school students with hands-on computer science learning at university campuses. Through projects and mentorship, scholars develop technical skills and explore STEM careers.
Along the way, students build relationships with peers, facilitators, and STEM professionals. These connections help them grow their confidence, strengthen their networks, and prepare for what comes next. For details about the next cycle, visit our application updates page.
HOW IT WORKS
Students gain access to the following:
ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility and application details for the next SMASH Academy cycle will be shared when available. Visit the SMASH application updates page for the latest information.
SMASH VIRTUAL
An online platform that provides students early exposure to STEM topics and career professionals.
schools used the platform through our partnership with Elite Gaming Live
WHAT IS SMASH VIRTUAL?
Since nearly 50% of students still lack opportunities to take CS courses in their schools, SMASH Virtual provides virtual courses on topics including AI/ML, cybersecurity, and programming, to ensure all students have the opportunity to gain foundational knowledge and skills for future CS educational pathways.
CONNECT WITH STEM PROFESSIONALS
Reaching a wider national audience, SMASH Virtual provides early exposure to STEM topics, STEM career professionals, and empowers youth to address pressing issues through hackathons and open innovation challenges. These provide an on-ramp to other programs, courses, offerings, and more.
COLLEGE + ALUMNI RESOURCES
We created a college + career digital hub to guide scholars through every stage of their STEM journey—starting in high school, through college, and into careers. Whether you’re a SMASH alum or a student exploring what’s next, this space is built for you.
SMASH ALUMNI
SMASH alumni receive support as they move from high school to college and into their careers. Resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities help graduates navigate each stage of their STEM journey. In addition, alumni stay connected with a community of peers and professionals.
85% of SMASH Alumni graduate from college within six years, compared to the national average of 60%
Over 70% of SMASH Alumni pursue careers in STEM fields
2x The rate at which SMASH Alumni complete a major in CS compared to the national average