New for the 2025-2026 academic year, the Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Mentorship Program will be working with current College of DuPage students pursuing STEM programs. With support from the STEM Division, we will be building a community of STEM-minded individuals motivated to pursue academic success, professional development and personal growth.
Program Goals
The Women in STEM Mentorship Program: Next Generation supports the success of the next generation of STEM professionals during their foundational years of education by:
- Creating a community of students
- Providing mentorship and guidance
- Exploring STEM careers and transfer paths
- Providing hands-on STEM experiences
- Learning about past, present and future trends in STEM
- Promoting STEM related opportunities for educational advancement and professional development
Program Activities
The program offers a variety of structured experiences designed to foster meaningful mentor-mentee connections, support academic and career development, and build a strong sense of community among participants.
- Up to 20 mentees are matched to COD faculty (two mentees for one mentor) based on interest areas, and will meet approximately three times each semester throughout the academic year.
- Meeting topics may include career exploration, challenges in the field, academic resources, transfer paths, alumni connections, internships and more.
- Mentees are invited to group workshops once a semester where they can interact and connect with one another, listen to speakers, and participate in hands-on STEM activities.
Application Process
The application is available online until September 8, 2025.
Eligibility
Students must be pursuing a STEM major, enrolled at COD for fall 2025, and plan to continue enrollment in Spring 2026. All genders are welcome. Selection decisions will be announced the week of September 15.
Contact Information
Dr. Kathleen Hess, Associate Professor, Chemistry
Health and Science Center (HSC), Room 3337
Phone: (630) 942-2420
Email: hessk132@cod.edu
Susan Fenwick, Student Success Coach
Berg Instructional Center, Room 2H11A
Phone: (630) 942-4226
Email: fenwicks@cod.edu