Pathways to Success in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
We offer three different programs tailored to first-generation students who are interested in becoming a member of Lewis & Clark’s scientific community.
Xplore
This free program takes place a few days before New Student Orientation (NSO) and is designed for students who identify as members of a group that is historically underrepresented in STEM fields. This includes first-generation college students, students of color, and women interested in the physical sciences. By participating in this program, students will gain tools to succeed in science and math courses at Lewis & Clark. Students will meet with current students and faculty, take part in lab activities, scavenger hunts and trips on and off campus, plus much more! No Prerequisites. All you need is an interest in STEM and a passion for learning. All skills/backgrounds are welcome. Come have fun exploring with us!
Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Lewis & Clark events and travel are currently being handled online or postponed until the situation improves. However, we are hopeful that by the time of the Xplore program in August 2020, it will be possible once again to gather in person. Since the program is free of charge, there is no financial risk to students and their families should we find it necessary to cancel or postpone the August 2020 program. We promise to keep you well-informed about the status of the program, and encourage you to apply. Please contact us with any questions you might have at stempathways@lclark.edu. Our first review of applications will be June 1, 2020.
What is the purpose of Xplore?
Xplore is designed to show students what taking classes in science or math at Lewis & Clark will be like and to provide tools for success during their time in college and beyond. Xplore aims to ease the transition into college by providing an opportunity for students with similar interests to come together to build a social and academic community before classes begin.
What will students do during the program?
- Participate in lab and field activities and collaborative problem solving
- Investigate campus resources and successful study strategies
- Get advice about choosing classes and planning your 4 years at L&C
- Learn about creating successful relationships with college faculty
- Meet science/math faculty
- Meet other students who share your interests
- Explore downtown Portland
- Hike in a local natural area
- Discuss career opportunities and preparation
- And more!
For more information about the Xplore program and to view activities and photos from past summers, visit Xplore.
Xperiment
Xperiment is the Living Learning Community for students who aspire to careers in science, math, engineering, and/or health fields. Xperiment residents are committed to supporting one another’s academic and personal success, to sharing their experiences, and to learning from one another. Activities focus on sharing excitement about science and math with others, connecting with faculty for advice and inspiration, and meeting successful professionals in these fields.
The Xperiment Living-Learning Community is cultivated through an on-going partnership with the division of Mathematical and Natural Sciences and is housed in Copeland Hall.
For more information about Living-Learning Communities, visit Campus Living.
Early Research
This program pairs first-year, first-generation students with a faculty mentor to work on a research project together. These paid positions are designed so new students receive an inside look at what it really means to be a scientist. There are no prerequisites or previous experience required, just a curiosity about science and research!
- No previous research experience is required.
- The Program is competitive; not everyone who applies is guaranteed a position.
- The Program starts at the beginning of each semester and continues throughout the term.
- Participants are paid Oregon minimum wage for the 6-8 hours/week they are expected to spend on a research project.
- Participants coordinate their research schedule with their faculty mentors.
For more information and to learn how to apply, visit Early Research.