A Friend in STEM is a mentorship program that connects undergraduate students interested in STEM with scientists at the University of Minnesota. As scientists, we know from experience that pursuing a career in STEM requires building a network of research and faculty mentors. We also realize that forming these connections can be difficult and intimidating. It is our goal through this program to leverage our experiences in graduate school and in labs at UMN to work for students - to help inform decisions about undergraduate research, and support students if/when they choose to pursue graduate degrees. We believe that careers in STEM should be accessible to everyone and we hope that connecting with a Minnesota scientist will help students to feel welcomed to this research community.

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A Friend in STEM was initiated by members of Empowering Women in Science, a graduate student and postdoc-led group at University of Minnesota. Find out more about EWIS' efforts at ewis.umn.edu