First year EKU students, get a head start on the semester, join us for STEM START 2026!
Applications are now being accepted on a rolling basis. Apply here today!
What is STEM START?
STEM START is a 4-night, 4-day experience designed to equip first-year EKU students with skills needed
for success in college. Participation in this program helps ensure STEM students arrive ready to succeed!
What types of activities could I expect?
This program offers multiple tracks, letting participants explore topics in their chosen major – all while
building connections with other students, faculty members, and campus resources.
Select a track below to learn more.
Possible activities include:
- Staying at EKU’s Maywoods Natural Area
- Peer-led Competitions, Ropes Courses
- Campfire Conversations
- Adulting Essentials and Life Hacks for College Success
- Workshops
- And more!
Possible activities include:
- Working with manufacturing equipment, like CNC Machines, 3D Printers, and Industrial Robots
- Visiting local manufacturing facilities, such as Toyota
- Touring the EKU Engineering facilities
- And more!
Possible activities include:
- Exploring the EKU Crime Scene House
- Rock Climbing in the Rec Center
- And more!
Possible activities include:
- Combining mathematics with programming to navigate a robotic vehicle
- Discovering mathematical patterns through games
- Enjoying bowling, mini golf, escape rooms, or trivia nights with peers
- Exploring pathways, research, and career possibilities
- Learning essential study strategies and building a personal roadmap
- for college success
- And more!
Possible activities include:
- Field Work Experiences
- Visiting local Wildlife Centers or Arboretums
- Hiking, Canoeing, Fishing
- Touring the EKU Biology Facilities
- And more!
When does it take place?
STEM START will take place Sunday, August 16th through Wednesday, August 19th on EKU’s Richmond
Campus, just prior to BIG E Welcome and the traditional move-in date.
Cost to participate?
Thanks to funding from the First 2 Network and other donors, we are able to offer this experience
at no cost to participants; with activities, scheduled meals, and early move-in costs fully covered.
Living Arrangements?
Participants living on campus during the Fall 2026 semester will be able to move into their dorms on
Sunday, August 16th. Commuters are also welcome to participate, but will need to commute to campus during STEM START.
Why is STEM START being offered?
Completion of undergraduate STEM degrees continues to lag workforce demands. STEM START is
designed to bridge gaps between high school and college such that students are ready for success in
college-level coursework on the first day of classes. By leveraging practices shown to build students’
persistence and sense of preparedness, we aim to increase retention and graduation rates in science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics programs.
Apply Today!
We’re glad that you are interested in applying to STEM START 2026! Participation is limited, with
participants from each major being accepted on a first come, first served basis. Applying early is
encouraged to secure your seat. The application deadline is July 1, 2026.
We have worked hard to create a program that will be valuable for all, so we ask that those applying
commit to attend and actively participate for the full duration of the event. Participation in all activities
of the program is expected for selected participants.
Questions?
Contact Elise Lahiere at elise.lahiere@eku.edu