Biologists for the Future
Biologists for the Future is a new program at St. Olaf intended to guide students through a successful major in biology as excellent preparation
for meaningful scientific careers. Funded through an S-STEM grant from the National Science Foundation, the goal is to actively recruit and then support through the biology major students with significant financial need, especially those from populations traditionally underrepresented in the sciences.
Approximately 6-10 program participants will receive scholarships annually to allow them to focus on their science education. In addition, Biologists for the Future will provide social support and mentoring needed to guide them through their undergraduate years toward careers in biology.
Biologists for the Future is focused on increasing the success in introductory biology courses, preparing students for success in intermediate and upper-level courses and broadening their awareness of careers that build on biology expertise. Program administrators will select students during their first or second year of college, follow them carefully to ensure successful progress, and provide career exploration and skill-building with the help of faculty, on-campus support programs and off-campus mentors.
The NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (S-STEM) program was established by the National Science Foundation in accordance with the American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-277) as modified by P.L. 106-313 and P.L.108-447 in 2004. The act reflects the national need to increase substantially the number of American scientists and engineers.
