STARS I is a mentoring program that seeks to create a network of support for 200 first-year students interested in STEM. The program is designed for students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds and those that feel underprepared in their STEM backgrounds. The program focuses on sustaining interest and motivation to pursue a STEM major by bolstering strong undergraduate student collaborations and faculty and peer mentorship.
The core of the STARS I Program is formed by the peer mentor groups that are led by junior and senior students, who foster tight-knit groups amongst the peer group in order to promote a richer first year experience. In addition to regular peer mentor group meetings and one-on-one advising, the program offers a series of panel discussions, informational sessions, professional development, and networking opportunities, led by upper-level students, graduate students, faculty and/or alumni. Programming events occur both in person and remotely. Attendance and participation are required at all mandatory program events.
The STARS I application will open to incoming first-years on June 26, 2025 in the Yale Student Grants & Fellowships database. The application deadline is Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 11:00PM ET. Students will be notified about acceptance by the end of July and will receive their peer mentor assignment, and the first information sessions will occur in mid-August.
For application questions please contact Donalee Slater at donalee.slater@yale.edu
STARS I FAQs:
- The program is designed for students that completed a limited number of AP STEM classes in high school and have very limited or no research experience.
- Groups of ~8 first year students are assigned to each peer mentor.
- STARS I students are required to attend all events and workshops unless an excused absence is obtained in advance and are expected to make time to meet with their peer mentor and peer group.
- The program focuses on advising and networking but does not primarily focus on STEM research. Students interested in advising and support for STEM research opportunities should instead attend the research opportunity workshops that are listed on the Science and QR website.