StEP-UP College Program
Student Enrichment Program for Underrepresented Professions (StEP-UP)
Curriculum
Undergraduate students in StEP-UP move through the program in a supportive cohort that supplements their pre-medicine and biomedical studies through each year of college. Students will get opportunities to work with MCW faculty and medical and graduate students.
While the StEP-UP program is designed to supplement each year of a student’s college career, we understand that not all students graduate in four years or go directly into their medical or graduate studies after college. Students will still be able to participate, even if they do not follow the traditional four-year college path.
StEP-UP Dates
StEP-UP consists of six Science Saturdays throughout each academic year. Most students will be admitted at the beginning of their first year in college.
Below are the tentative dates for the 2024-2025 academic year for new Step 1 Cohort:
- November 16, 2024 (8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., at MCW)
- January 25, 2025 (9 a.m. – 12 p.m., virtual)
- February 15, 2025 (9 a.m. – 12 p.m., virtual)
- March 8, 2025 (9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at MCW)
- April 12, 2025 (9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at MCW)
Attendance is mandatory for each session.
StEP-UP only accepts students into the Step 1 cohort and participants move onto subsequent cohorts each year following the curriculum below:
Step 1 (Freshmen Year): Building a Professional Perspective
Build your study skills and participate in scholarly conversations and activities. Learn about different communication styles, personal branding, work/life balance, and how to financially prepare for medical or graduate school and beyond.
Step 2 (Sophomore Year): Clinical and Research Opportunities
Explore different specialties and research. Shadow MCW faculty in clinic and laboratory settings while being introduced to the MCAT.
Step 3 (Junior Year)
Develop a strong application for medical or graduate school admission. Prepare for the MCAT and focus on the application process, creating a personal statement, and asking for letters of recommendation.
Step 4 (Senior Year)
You will receive support as you enter the admissions cycle for medical or graduate school. There will be opportunities to connect with current MCW students and residents in addition to volunteering including serving as a peer mentor for Step 1 students.
College Program Application Requirements and Procedure
Application Deadline
Applications for the upcoming academic year open on May 1
Application deadline is September 30 each year
Eligibility
To be eligible, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Have at least a cumulative 3.0 GPA (high school GPA for Freshmen, college GPA for Sophomores or higher)
- Enrolled at an accredited college in Wisconsin
- Ability to travel to the MCW-Milwaukee one Saturday each month during the academic year
How to Apply
- Complete the online application
- Upload your current resume/CV
- Upload high school (for new freshmen) or college transcripts (unofficial transcripts accepted)
- Two recommendation forms completed (at least one academic; recommendations from friends or family will not be considered)
- Applications for the upcoming academic year open on May 1. The application closes on September 30.
Zoom interviews will be required for all eligible applicants.
Student Testimonials
"My favorite aspects of StEP-UP programming is that we are connected with people on campus who help us curate our road to medical school. I felt that I have been able to be a part of a community of people who cared for and looked out for one another."
College StEP-UP ParticipanT
"Although bitter sweet to see everyone leave for the summer, it was amazing to see participants matriculate into MCW."
College StEP-UP Participant
"I enjoyed meeting students in all different stages of their careers with amazing and aspiring goals. I loved having a 1-1 mentor who was nothing less than empowering. I found myself looking forward to all sessions which were also enjoyable.”
College StEP-UP Participant