Building Opportunities and Overtures in Science and Technology: Establishing an Early Intervention, Multi-level, Continuous STEM Pathway Program

Building Opportunities and Overtures in Science and Technology (BOOST) is an early intervention, multi-level, continuous STEM pathway program. Born out of a partnership between Duke University and Durham Public Schools, the BOOST program provides 6th through 8th grade students underrepresented in STEM fields with interactive, in-depth explorations of STEM education and STEM careers. BOOST uniquely provides program continuity through high school, undergraduate, and graduate leadership programming. The purpose of this article is to characterize the components of the BOOST program including program background, principles, structure, timeline, and leadership opportunities. BOOST highlights the benefits of integrating early intervention and continuity into the framework of STEM pathway programs. We hope that lessons learned from this program will inform existing programs and encourage the creation of future early intervention, multi-level, continuous STEM pathway programs.