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iSTEM

Inclusion in STEM (iSTEM) connects students across STEM fields with faculty and peers who are committed to their success. The program brings together students in science, social science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computer science.

iSTEM offers a peer mentoring program designed to support first-year, sophomore, and transfer students as they transition into a STEM major. Participants are paired with an upperclass mentor who has succeeded in a similar field and can offer guidance, support, and real insight into the EIU experience.

Throughout the semester, iSTEM members also have opportunities to connect through social and professional events held two to three times each term.

Request an iStem Mentor

As new college students begin their studies in STEM fields it is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming.  iSTEM peer mentors have been in your shoes and will be able to help guide you through the transition from high school to college or community college to a 4-year university. Your peer mentor will assist you in becoming acclimated to EIU and introduce you to campus resources that promote student success for STEM majors. Mentorship events and social activities solidify bonds amongst mentors, mentees, and other iSTEM students to create a learning community to support each other in their academic and career goals.

Become an iSTEM Mentor

Peer mentors play an integral role in aiding new students with a successful transition to EIU and are involved in creating an inclusive environment for first-generation, Pell grant eligible students within the STEM majors. Peer mentors serve as a positive role model and a resource to promote STEM student success. By serving as an iSTEM peer mentor, students will develop important leadership and professional skills. As a peer mentor, you will find that helping others is a rewarding experience through developing social connections and seeing others succeed.

iStem Mentor Requirements

• Must be a STEM Major
• Should have Sophomore, Junior, or Senior status
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in STEM courses related to their major
• Successful experiences in STEM courses
• Be in and maintain good academic and disciplinary standing with the University
• Have a desire to help first-generation students within the STEM majors
• Have strong interpersonal communication skills
• Must be able to attend all training sessions and mentor meetings
• Must provide a faculty member name as a reference
• Two semester commitment

2025-2026 iSTEM Advisory Committee

• Co-Directors:
  • Eden Effert-Fanta - Biological Sciences
  • Steven Pellizzeri, Chemistry & Biochemistry
• Committee Members:
  • Alejandra Alvarado, Mathematics & Computer Science
  • Michael Beck, Chemistry & Biochemistry
  • Gary Bulla, Biological Sciences
  • Jake Crandall, Geology/Geography
  • Kirstin Duffin, Booth Library
  • Andrew Mertz, Mathematics & Computer Science
  • Jeff Okrasinski, Engineering Technology
  • Tiffany Pellizzeri, Chemistry & Biochemistry

iSTEM Jobs and Research Opportunities

Research at EIU

By engaging in research along with doing your coursework, you diversify your skillset, add to your resume, and develop relationships with your faculty advisor, labmates, and peers. Research and internship experiences open the door to future job and career opportunities.

The Pine Honors College offers information about Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) and funding opportunities through the URSCA grant.

Look to your department's page for more:

• Biological Sciences
• Chemistry & Biochemistry
• Geology / Geography
• Physics
• Psychology: research and internships
• Sociology, Anthropology & Criminology

Additional Research & Scholarship Opportunities

National Science Foundation's Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU)

Work in a research program at one of many universities or research institutions in the United States. In an REU, you will work closely with a faculty member, researchers, and fellow undergraduates. Participants are granted stipends and, often, financial support for housing and travel.

U.S. Government Agency opportunities (DOE, EPA, NIH, NOAA, USDA, USGS, etc.)

• A search portal for federally-sponsored research internships and scholarships for undergraduates.

Fully-funded STEM programs

Summer research, scholarships, fellowships, and other fully funded STEM programs.

• Search 1,000+ programs in a variety of disciplines and education levels:
• Programs for underrepresented minority students:
• Programs for women:

EIU Career Center: Handshake

Explore career options, find jobs and internships for students, and connect with employers.

Additional Career Opportunities

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•  - Jobs, internships, grants, news and discussions in Biology. Sponsored by the Ecological Society of America.
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