Making Connections

The purpose of the Making Connections program is to support Rider science students from historically under-represented groups. Participating members (called J&J STEM Scholars) engage in a range of activities aimed at fostering academic and professional development. By building a community of driven individuals, the program aims to contribute to the success and representation of diverse talent in the field of science.

The program facilitates networking opportunities, provides financial support, and promotes meaningful connections among students and professionals in their desired career fields.

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• Networking with Professionals: Engage in networking events and opportunities that connect scholars with professionals working in their chosen science-related careers.
• Connecting with Peers: Interact and collaborate with other scholars in their majors, fostering a strong sense of community and mutual support.
• Building Relationships: Develop meaningful relationships with peers and professionals, laying the foundation for future academic and career success.

To remain eligible for the Making Connections Program, participants must fulfill the following requirements:

Attendance at Speaking Series Events: Scholars must attend a minimum of two Making Connections events each semester to stay engaged with networking opportunities.

Weekly Meeting Attendance: Regularly attend at least 75% of the weekly meetings to benefit fully from the program's academic and networking support. These meetings serve as a platform for skill development, community building, and updates on program activities.

Utilization of Academic Support: Scholars must make use of academic support services provided by the program for their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) classes. This ensures they receive the necessary assistance to excel in their academic pursuits.