With a kickstart of the new STEAM program, 11 Bronx River juniors have started attending Mercy University for their chosen career pathways. They attend classes at BRHS from 8:15 a.m. to noon. Then they head to Mercy University, where they take classes in their selected programs until 3 p.m. The STEAM program, which introduces students to more hands-on work rather than the traditional classroom setting, currently provides programs in Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Cyber Security.

Next year, the students’ schedules will flip: They will attend STEAM classes in the morning and BRHS classes in the afternoon.

Deborah Kabore, a junior CMA, is enjoying the experience. “I like the people in general,’’ she said. “They are really welcoming and sweet.’’

Alexa Figueroa, another junior CMA, is also a fan. “I like how I’m in a classroom with people that aren’t from my school and we all get to learn new things together and grow as a community,” she said. “The STEAM program obviously has its academic benefits but it also presents an opportunity for students to make new friends.’’

Jemny Santana, the 11th grade guidance counselor, helped choose students for the program this year. “I would recommend the Bronx STEAM program to students so they can be exposed to a potential career path and gain exposure,’’ she said.

Interested in joining? Sophomores will have a chance to apply later this school year for the following school year. Students participating in the STEAM program will receive eight elective credits toward their high school diploma. Students must be on track to graduate with their credits, Regents and might need to take classes in the summer to qualify for the STEAM program.