UT PREP is a 100% donor and sponsor-funded program that provides free, high-quality STEM learning for middle school students. Students attend the 6-week program for three consecutive summers, gaining valuable problem-solving skills and exposure to real-world STEM applications. From 2017 to 2025, the program grew from 25 to 140 students with ~90% retention from year to year. Support from partners makes hands-on classes, field trips, and real industry exposure possible—opening doors for first-generation, underserved, and high-achieving students to explore STEM and build confidence.
Support UT PREP
Student Reach & Engagement
UT PREP has grown into a powerful STEM pipeline, giving middle school students hands-on academic experiences that build confidence, curiosity, and long-term momentum.
400+ students served since 2017
PREP continues to reach more students every year, creating a growing community of future STEM leaders.
Grown from 25 to 140 students in 9 years
This rapid expansion reflects both the demand for the program and the proven value it delivers.
~90% annual retention rate
Students love the program so much that nearly all of them return each summer to keep learning.
Support UT Prep
Your support goes directly toward keeping UT PREP free for every student and expanding access to hands-on STEM opportunities. Donations help fund classroom materials, technology, field trips, and the resources needed to serve more students each year. By giving, you’re investing in the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators right here in our community.
DonateEquity & Access
PREP is committed to removing barriers and ensuring that high-quality STEM education is accessible to all students—especially those who need it most.
~20% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch
Many students come from financially vulnerable households who benefit greatly from a no-cost program.
~30% are potential first-generation college students
PREP opens doors for students who may be the first in their families to pursue higher education.
$0 cost to families — fully funded by donations & sponsorships
Every contribution ensures that students can participate in rigorous STEM learning completely free of charge.
Student Testimonials
“It was the best experience of my life! I absolutely would do it every summer. Maybe even EVERYDAY!”
- UT PREP Student
“PREP has helped me in so many ways, like education, friendship, and acceptance. PREP has been a huge honor and an amazing part of my life. I truly value the opportunity and have really enjoyed being part of the program.”
- UT PREP Student
“When the problems you have to solve challenge your thinking skills—that’s the best part.”
- UT PREP Student
“Imagine there is a place you go to for a short time. There’s luscious grass, the feel of the sun on your skin, and people around you having fun. You get to learn amazing new things, use your creativity, and do the things you love. Everyone here thinks the same as you, and you feel a sense of connection to the individuals around you. You feel content and safe, and don’t have a single place you’d rather be. This is how I feel when I am at Utah Tech PREP.”
- UT PREP Student
“One thing I love about Utah Tech Prep is that it takes a different approach than normal school; the lessons felt engaging, understandable, and challenging at the same time.”
- UT PREP Student
“Utah Tech PREP has had an amazing impact on me. I’ve improved in my academics majorly, but more importantly, PREP has helped me enjoy learning and challenging myself.”
- UT PREP Student
Academic Growth & Future Outcomes
UT PREP helps students build real STEM skills and confidence, leading to measurable academic gains and long-term success in advanced programs and future career paths.
Up to 46% growth in STEM subjects
Students show significant improvement in engineering, logic, physics, and probability and statistics over the 6-week program.
Strong STEM identity growth (up to 21% increases)
Students leave PREP feeling more like “math people,” “science people,” and future engineers.
50–60% of graduates enroll in SUCCESS Academy
Many PREP alumni pursue accelerated early-college STEM pathways, continuing their academic momentum.
Contact
If you have any questions, contact the PREP admin team at PREP@utahtech.edu
Amanda Fa'onelua
Director of Utah Tech PREP Mathematics Quantitative Literacy Completion
Email: amanda.faonelua@utahtech.edu
Phone: 435-879-4775
Office: Snow 114b