Across the country, many high school students with a passion for STEM lack access to immersive, college-level learning experiences that challenge them to think creatively and build real-world skills. SMASH exists to change that. A national nonprofit founded in 2001, SMASH provides intensive STEM programs that combine rigorous academics with hands-on experiences, helping scholars explore college life and prepare for future careers.

When something broke in the Gadia house — a TV, a phone, the family computer — Prince Jayhon was the one they called. Even as a kid growing up in Sacramento, he was the fixer. His mom leaned on him for tech help. His brother watched as he downloaded software and changed settings most adults didn’t dare touch. Prince didn’t always know what he was doing, but he kept trying.

If you’ve ever sat through a class wondering when you’d actually use what you’re learning, you’re not alone. At SMASH Academy, we hear it all the time: “This is the first time STEM feels real.”