Dear Colleagues, Dr. Sunggye Hong and Dr. Steve Kortenkamp are recruiting students with visual impairments for a unique study! The purpose of the study is to expose students who are blind or have low vision to STEM careers through project based learning, mentorship and interaction with scientists who already are engaged in STEM careers, and university science students. This National Science Foundation sponsored study will help students explore the latest research on the planet Mars, scrutinizing findings from NASA spacecraft, learning about the largest volcanoes in the solar system, investigating fossilized shorelines of ancient Martian oceans, and much more! The purpose of this project is for students with visual impairments to raise awareness and to provide experiences necessary to pursue STEM subjects and careers. We plan to use Project-Based Learning Opportunities and dual-tiered mentoring experience as a means to achieve this goal. Industry mentors with visual impairments will serve an important role in this process. You will share your experiences, discuss necessary credential, and identify significant technology options. You will serve as a role model for students with visual impairments and to assist students with visual impairments as they complete their assignments. Industry mentors should: (a) have a visual impairment; (b) be employed in a STEM-related field in the US; and (c) agree to give a minimum of three hours of time per month to the project. We would like to talk to you if you are interested in participating in this study. The initial interview will take approximately 30 minutes and will be conducted over the phone. We will determine your eligibility during this interview as well as provide additional information about the study. There is no risk for participation in this study. To participate in this study, please send your email address and phone number that will be used for the initial interview. One of the research team members will setup a meeting with you. Contact Dr. Sunggye Hong at sghong@email.arizona.edu<mailto:sghong@email.arizona.edu> or 520-621-0945 for more information. Thanks for your time! Irene Irene Topor, PhD, TVI, CLVT Director, Project POEM<http://poem.coe.arizona.edu/> [POEM-Graphic-Final (002)]<http://poem.coe.arizona.edu/> University of Arizona, Tucson College of Education 1430 E. Second St. PO Box 210069 Tucson, Arizona 85721 Email: ilt@email.arizona.edu Phone: 520.626.3863