What is First-Generation STEM Scholars?
First-Generation STEM Scholars is a joint cohort-based initiative between the Science Learning Center (SLC) and the Office of Academic and Multicultural Initiatives (OAMI) designed to intentionally support first-generation students through the Organic Chemistry courses, CHEM 210 and CHEM 215.
Succeeding in the Organic Chemistry courses at Michigan can feel like make-or-break courses for students in STEM and those following pre-health pathways. It can be difficult to know where to find help and support when you need it most and which resources are best designed with you in mind and worth your time. This is where First-Generation STEM Scholars is here to help!
A Cohort-Based & Community-Minded Program
First-Generation STEM Scholars is a cohort-based program open to first-generation students taking CHEM 210 or CHEM 215 during the Fall 2026 and Winter 2027 semesters. Students who participate in our inaugural cohort this term will be invited to participate in community-building events to get to know each other as well as all of the student success coaches and study group facilitators that make up the team in your corner for support throughout the entire two-term sequence of Organic Chemistry.
Course-Specific Support
First-Generation STEM Scholars will have access to weekly peer-led study group sessions that are designed to align with the specific weekly course content you are covering in CHEM 210 and CHEM 215. These are small groups by design to allow for a safe and engaged learning environment. First-Gen STEM Scholars will also have access to appointment-based tutoring for more time to be able to tackle specific content-based questions at your pace. The best part? Both study groups & tutoring are led by other students who have already taken the course and done well, so they really know how to help.
Building Long-Term Strategies for Success
In addition to course-specific support, First-Generation STEM Scholars will also receive 1-on-1 coaching from a dedicated Peer Coach to help you set achievable and meaningful goals, navigate the challenges of student life, academics, and balancing it all, and ultimately help you stay on track while you tackle the Organic Chemistry sequence. Our Peer Coaches are also fellow students who have succeeded in CHEM 210 and 215, so you can trust that their strategies work.
How to Get Involved?
Eligibility
Registration for the inaugural cohort of First-Generation STEM Scholars is now open
until 11:59pm on September 8th!
Complete the registration form now & secure your community of support for the entire CHEM 210 and 215 sequence!
The form should take no more than 3 minutes to complete.
If you have any questions or issues with the registration form, please direct them to us at FirstGenSTEM@umich.edu.
Become a Peer Coach for First-Gen STEM Scholars
Applications for Peer Coaches are now open until 11:59pm on September 8th!
Training & matching will begin shortly thereafter.
If you have any questions, please direct them to FirstGenSTEM@umich.edu!
