1) Which majors are compatible with the Science Pathways Academy?
You can major in biology, chemistry, biology-chemistry, or environmental studies. If at any time you change your major and no longer have a major in one of these disciplines, you cannot remain in the program.
2) Can I double major or do a minor if I am in this program?
Yes, as long as one of your majors is a science major.
3) Can I pursue a two-year pre-pharmacy plan as part of this program?
No, the goal of the Academy is for students to complete a bachelor’s degree in a science major.
4) Can I be in the Honors Program and the Science Pathways Academy?
Yes, this program is completely compatible with Honors.
5) Can I be in the Fast Forward Program and the Science Pathways Academy?
Yes, this program is completely compatible with Fast Forward.
6) Will this program require a lot of extra work from me?
No; it requires different work. For example, in your research-based science labs, you may write fewer lab reports than students in other sections, but the work will be more complex. There are some journaling requirements for the mentoring program, but our current students suggest that the benefits of the mentoring program are worth it!
7) Will all of my courses be chosen for me, or do I get some flexibility?
In your first year, most of your schedule will consist of specific sections of courses you would have had to take anyway. The special sections give you the support of a dynamic learning community during your transition to college. Then, in years 2-4, aside from taking a short seminar each year, your course schedule is entirely up to you.
9) What other benefits are there to being in the Science Pathways Academy?
In general, our student cohorts are very cohesive, and students make friends and study groups easily in the cohort. The cohort size is small (about 15-20 students), and we create social opportunities throughout the school year, such as having ice cream at a professor’s house.