Science Pathways Scholars Program (SP)² and E(SP)²

A program targeting first-generation, and low-income students.

The Science Pathways Scholars Program – (SP)² – is a highly selective four-year program to support talented young women from low-income or first-generation college students, who convey strong interest in biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, physics/astronomy, or neuroscience. Students who are selected as (SP)² Scholars will benefit from an exceptional set of opportunities and resources.

E(SP)² is an NSF-funded program to prepare the next generation of diverse leaders in Environmental Science. The program is designed for students who intend on pursuing one of the majors in the Department of Environmental Science (Environmental Science or Environment and Sustainability) with an interest in Environmental Science, Sustainability or Environmental Justice. The goal is to increase and diversify the Environmental Science major and workforce.

(SP)² Scholars are supported by generous grants from the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, the National Science Foundation, and the Blankfein Family. 

Faculty Mentorship

Personal match with a faculty mentor in the sciences. Mentors will help Scholars transition through the introductory science classes to the selection of a major. Scholars will work closely with their mentors, who will serve as their initial academic advisors and help Scholars match to research experiences.

Summer Experience

A week-long, all-expenses-paid trip to Barnard for entering Scholars. Activities include introductions to Barnard’s science faculty, science departments, and research facilities, plus activities with fellow (SP)² and E(SP)² incoming First-Years and current Scholars involved in Barnard’s Summer Research Institute.

A Cohort of Likeminded Peers

A series of seminars, discussion sessions, and social events with other (SP)² and E(SP)² participants and faculty leaders, beginning with a one-credit science journal course in the first year. Other events scheduled throughout all four undergraduate years at Barnard help build a collaborative and engaging environment and a network of mutual support among peers and near peers.

Paid Summer Research Positions

During the three summers of a Scholar’s years at Barnard, hands-on lab research experiences with Barnard faculty will be available. Scholars will receive compensation and summer housing through Barnard’s Summer Research Institute.

Academic Year Opportunities

Opportunities to conduct research in faculty labs during academic year, plus mini-grants to help Scholars complete senior projects, attend conferences, or prepare graduate school applications.

Faculty mentorship is a cornerstone of these programs. Students are assigned a faculty mentor in their first year who will guide them through the program and science opportunities. For more information about the faculty mentors, click on their bios below. 

Rachel Austin (Chemistry)
Elizabeth Bauer (Neuroscience)
John Glendinning (Biology)
Reshmi Mukherjee (Physics and Astronomy)
Sedelia Rodriguez  (Environmental Science)
Mark Santolucito (Computer Science)

 

Eligibility for (SP)²

• Students must be applying to Barnard as first-year students.
• Students must demonstrate a strong interest in the sciences. Student must indicate an initial interest in a major in biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, physics/astronomy or neuroscience and select one of these to continue in the program all 4 years.
• Students must be low-income, as defined by the financial aid materials, or a first-generation student with parents who did not complete a four-year college degree.

Eligibility for E(SP)²

• First generation or low income students who have demonstrated a commitment to science with a strong interest in environmental science are eligible to apply at the time of admission to Barnard or during the spring semester of their first year.
• For admission to Barnard in Fall 2023, if you are invited to interview for (SP)² you will have the opportunity to opt into consideration for E(SP)².
• Students with less science experience are encouraged to apply during their first year at Barnard. Students in the CSTEP and HEOP programs are specifically encouraged to apply during the Spring semester of their first year. Note that GPA is not the sole measure being considered during the application process, with passion and clear interest in pursuing a career in environmental science being considered.

How do I apply?

​Step 1

All applicants to Barnard College who meet the criteria outlined above are eligible. Submit your application to Barnard by November 1 for Early Decision or January 1 for Regular Decision. Indicate your interest in E(SP)² or (SP)² on the application, and include the required additional materials:

a) Complete the required short essay outlining your interest in pursuing science and science research.
b) Submit a recommendation from a science teacher or science mentor.

Step 2

Students admitted to Barnard will be notified of their selection as E(SP)² or (SP)² Scholars, along with admission in late March.

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