In-Depth Look: Science Pathways Scholars Program
Imagine, you are at your computer putting together the finishing touches on your Barnard application...your personal statement has been revised and your supplements have been tirelessly perfected....you are finally ready to submit! But before you submit, you notice you’ve overlooked something - a supplement for the Science Pathways Scholars Program (SP)² !
The Science Pathways Scholars Program is a newly installed collegiate program that supports minorities and first generation students interested in research during their four years at Barnard. Scholars are supported in their research endeavors and have access to a multitude of scientific resources and opportunities. Looking back, filling out that additional supplement and interviewing for the program was the second best decision I made before coming to Barnard (the first being my decision to attend Barnard!) Barnard gave me the opportunity to dive into the sciences and also receive the liberal arts education I craved.
Before I set foot on campus as a first year, I could see the benefits of being a member of the (SP)². One of the most amazing advantages of being a scholar is participating in the summer experience. During the summer before my first semester, I spent a week on campus to be introduced to the sciences at Barnard. This experience was extremely helpful because not only did we tour labs at Barnard and Columbia but we were introduced to science faculty. This was truly one of the major advantages of the summer experience. We were able to get to know professors and learn study tips before starting the semester. In addition to the introduction of sciences at Barnard, the summer experience gave us a chance to explore the city and participate in scientific activities. Who wouldn't want to be a subject in a microbial study conducted at the American Natural History Museum? Or learn about the natural history of the Palisades while hiking in the very location of the formations?
The (SP)² group hanging out it Chelsea Market!
Throughout the academic year the program also holds activities to keep members involved in (SP)² through invitations to science lectures and hosting receptions. My cohort feels like having a special family within the larger Barnard community. As a scholar currently in my first semester of college, I can honestly say that I am most looking forward to the summer research. The most important aspect of the program is the access we have to scientific research and funding for our endeavors. Scholars get to enjoy three summers of paid research which eliminates the stress of finding funding for research. I am so appreciative to be part of this program because it truly just adds to the wonderful experience I have been having here at Barnard. If you are interested in research science, this is definitely the program for you!
If you have any further questions about Barnard or (SP)², please email me!
Ana
al3574@barnard.edu