Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program

Iona's CSTEP program is currently transitioning into a new cycle. More information about applying for and receiving support from our CSTEP program is forthcoming. 

The Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) at Iona University is an academic enrichment program designed to provide academic support during the undergraduate years to students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), health-related fields and the licensed professions.

The CSTEP program drives success by providing eligible students with:

  • Tutorial assistance
  • CSTEP-focused workshops
  • Career preparedness events
  • Scholarships for enrollment in Kaplan preparatory classes for DAT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, OAT and PCAT
  • Financial assistance with graduate and professional school admission applications
  • Academic advisement
  • Opportunities to participate in the University’s Annual Undergraduate Research Scholars Day
  • Access to Careers in Science at Iona (CSI) Program
  • Career, Research and Professional Development Conferences, including the Annual CSTEP Statewide Student Conference
  • Paid internship and research opportunities

Eligibility

Applicants must be New York State residents and full-time matriculated Iona students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher

Applicants must be pursuing careers in one of the following qualifying majors:

  • Accounting
  • Biochemistry
  • Biology
  • Bio and Adolescent Education
  • Business Analytics and Information Systems
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Clinical Communication
  • Cyber Security
  • Game Development
  • Cybercrime and Prevention
  • Diversity and Social Welfare
  • Economics
  • Education in STEM
  • Finance
  • Healthcare Management
  • Law
  • Marriage and Family Therapy
  • Psychology
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics and Adolescent Education
  • Mathematics and Computer Science
  • Mental Health Counseling
  • Neuroscience
  • Nursing
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physics
  • Public Health
  • Social Work
  • School Psychology
  • Qualifying Majors
  • Speech Pathology

Staff

Kristen McCallum, Program Director

Email: kmccallum@iona.edu

Phone: (914) 633-2098

Kristen McCallum, Program Director

Kristen grew up in Mount Vernon, NY, within a vibrant Jamaican family, sparking her early curiosity about storytelling as a tool for clarity, connection, and change. A proud first-generation college graduate, Kristen has extensive experience designing and leading mission-driven programs focused on equity, education, and public engagement. In 2017, she founded SafeWordSociety, an initiative celebrating historically marginalized communities that became a hub for collaboration and cultural visibility. She brings a multidisciplinary background as an author, creative strategist, and program architect to her role as Director of CSTEP.

Grounded in storytelling and lived experience, Kristen advances CSTEP’s mission by emphasizing communication and critical thinking skills essential for student success in STEM and beyond. She champions these skills as the foundation for cultivating confident leaders and innovators. As a consultant, Kristen has partnered with organizations including The Obama Foundation and Peoplmovr to lead strategic planning, curriculum development, and narrative-driven programming. She holds a BA and MA in English from the University at Albany, SUNY. Her debut young adult novel, FREE GIRLS, will be published by Flatiron Books in July 2026.