Careers in STEM fields—science, technology, engineering, and math—are witnessing an explosion of growth. Despite the demand, people of color are vastly underrepresented in STEM-related occupations. 

Maria Fernanda Trochimezuk wants to level the playing field with IOScholarships, a platform that connects underrepresented students to STEM scholarships.

Low-income students, students of color, and those who are the first in their families to go to college often have a tougher time finding a first job out of college and earn less than their more privileged peers.

The reasons are complex: Underrepresented and first-generation students may have few role models to follow. Unpaid internships are unaffordable for those on financial aid. Experts agree that both colleges and employers need to do more to help all students successfully make the transition from college to career.