About the program

The Golden Scholars program is a first-generation program exclusive to students who’s declared major is in the College of Science. A first-generation college student is one whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor’s degree. This program is designed to build community and enhance student success and retention at the University and is open to all undergraduate first-generation students in the College of Science. The program also partners College of Science first- or second-year students with a peer mentor to help students adjust to college life. There is no cost associated with participating in Golden Scholars.

Students admitted to the program will attend a kick-off event each semester, meet with a mentor (upperclassman) for guidance, attend socials with other first-gen students and mentors, as well as educational workshops and advising for academic and career success. Students who meet program requirements will earn a program certificate, attend an Advancement Ceremony and receive a Golden Scholars stole to wear at commencement.

Program requirements

Whether you are a first-generation student participating in the program or a peer mentor guiding fellow students, there are requirements associated with participation in the program.

Mentor requirements

• One (1) mentor training (Fall)
• Two (2) educational workshops for professional development per semester
• Regular meetings with Golden Scholars team (bi-weekly)
• One (1) kick-off event per semester (BBQ in Fall, Faculty Social in Spring)
• Three (3) student meetings per semester per Mentee (small group sessions are welcome)
• One (1) casual social per semester (paint, Legos, clay, etc.) – organized by one to two Mentors
• Invite, confirm attendance, and encourage participation to Mentees for events
• Attend Nevada Bounds (as assigned)
• Manage Golden Scholars Instagram account (as assigned)
• Table at ScienceFIT
• Mid-year job performance evaluation

Mentee requirements

To earn a program Certificate and Golden Scholars stole to wear at commencement, students in the program must successfully complete one year of the following required activities:

• One (1) kick-off event per semester (BBQ in Fall, Faculty Social in Spring)
• Three (3) mentor meetings per semester
• One (1) social per semester
• One (1) mandatory workshop per semester (Cultural Competence, Panels, etc.)
• One (1) pre-professional, research, or academic advising appointment per semester

Are you ready to join the program?

Fill out the Golden Scholars application to indicate your interest in participating.