StEP-UP College Program

Undergraduate students in StEP-UP move through the program in a supportive cohort that supplements their pre-medicine and biomedical studies through each year of college. Students will get opportunities to work with MCW faculty and medical and graduate students.

While the StEP-UP program is designed to supplement each year of a student’s college career, we understand that not all students graduate in four years or go directly into their medical or graduate studies after college. Students will still be able to participate, even if they do not follow the traditional four-year college path.

StEP-UP Dates

StEP-UP consists of six Science Saturdays throughout each academic year. Most students will be admitted at the beginning of their first year in college.

Below are the tentative dates for the 2024-2025 academic year for new Step 1 Cohort:

• November 16, 2024 (8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., at MCW)
• January 25, 2025 (9 a.m. – 12 p.m., virtual)
• February 15, 2025 (9 a.m. – 12 p.m., virtual)
• March 8, 2025 (9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at MCW)
• April 12, 2025 (9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at MCW)

Attendance is mandatory for each session.

StEP-UP only accepts students into the Step 1 cohort and participants move onto subsequent cohorts each year following the curriculum below:

Step 1 (Freshmen Year): Building a Professional Perspective

Build your study skills and participate in scholarly conversations and activities. Learn about different communication styles, personal branding, work/life balance, and how to financially prepare for medical or graduate school and beyond.

Step 2 (Sophomore Year): Clinical and Research Opportunities

Explore different specialties and research. Shadow MCW faculty in clinic and laboratory settings while being introduced to the MCAT.

Step 3 (Junior Year)

Develop a strong application for medical or graduate school admission. Prepare for the MCAT and focus on the application process, creating a personal statement, and asking for letters of recommendation.

Step 4 (Senior Year)

You will receive support as you enter the admissions cycle for medical or graduate school. There will be opportunities to connect with current MCW students and residents in addition to volunteering including serving as a peer mentor for Step 1 students.