ARGYLES Mentoring Program

The ARGYLES Mentoring Program is designed to engage students majoring in biology as emergent scientists who will contribute to the vitality of the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) pipeline in the Northeast. ARGYLES (Attract, Retain, and Graduate Young LifE Scientists), will strengthen the STEM scholar community and create a feedback loop of confidence and motivation to help students both learn science and identify themselves as scientists, two key criteria for persistence to graduation in STEM disciplines.

The STEM Scholar community engages in the following:

Field Biology Teaching Trip

Students participate in a summer science experience that will take place over the two-week period prior to the start of fall semester. This experience will include a trip during which the students will engage in inquiry-based and collaborative field research. In addition to strengthening scientific skills and learning to work collaboratively, this experience will enable incoming students to get to know one another and to establish peer mentor relationships with upper-level classmates. In subsequent years, the ARGYLE scholars and other students who previously attended the field experience will become peer mentors to future incoming students.

Biology Seminar Series

The Biology Department hosts multiple guest speakers each semester. Typically seminar speakers present on their research, new developments in industry, and career paths. STEM Scholars have additional time to speak with these guests about careers in STEM.

Biology Club

The scholars will participate in Biology Club events, such as the annual Earth Day 5K charitable race, outdoor trips, journal or news discussions, and visits to a graduate/research labor a biotech facility.

Summer Research Experience

The scholars will be provided summer research opportunities working either within a faculty members research program or on a topic of their own choosing. Their research experience can continue in a culminating senior research project.

Workforce Preparation

Partnerships with biotechnology companies and other STEM employers, outreach and communications with alumni, and opportunities for students to connect with STEM employers for site visits and internships.