Pathways in Science First-Year Initiative
Pathways in Science
Pathways in Science is a first-year experience program designed for students who are not part of the Mason Science Residential Learning Community (RLC)* but want to actively engage in the College of Science's research, career, and community-building opportunities.
Explore STEM Beyond the Classroom with Pathways in Science
Join us for off-campus excursions, interactive “stressbuster” events, and meaningful opportunities to serve your community while building leadership skills through our annual Citizen Science Challenge. As a Pathways in Science participant, you will connect with research faculty, explore STEM internship and research opportunities, and engage with a dynamic community of fellow science students, plus explore specialized interests by joining optional RLC/FYE Affinity Groups, such as SUSTAIN@Mason and Aspiring Health Professionals (AHP).
Pathways in Science students jumpstart their STEM success in COS 100, our mandatory, hands-on course that builds key skills for STEM success while fostering close connections with faculty and peers.
Who Can Participate?
The Pathways in Science program is open to first-year students pursuing a major or minor in the College of Science who are not part of the Mason Science Residential Learning Community (RLC). Special consideration is given to students who:
- Live off campus or in select on-campus settings (such as the Honors RLC)
- Participate Mason’s Student Transition Empowerment Program (STEP) or the College of Science STEM Bridge/Math Bootcamp Experiences
Questions? Contact Kerin Hilker-Balkissoon, Director of Community Engagement and Career Pathways, at khilkerb@gmu.edu.
*Students in the Mason Science Residential Learning Community (RLC) automatically receive access to all Pathways in Science programs and events.