StEP-UP College Program
The STEP-UP College Program supports undergraduate students who are pursuing careers in medicine and the biomedical sciences. Through a structured, multi-year cohort model, students enhance their pre-medicine and biomedical coursework with professional development, mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities while receiving support with their medical or graduate school applications. Participants engage with Ϲ faculty, medical students, and graduate students while building the academic, professional, and personal skills necessary for success in medical or graduate education. The program is designed to complement each stage of the undergraduate experience and remains flexible for students who follow varied academic timelines.
Curriculum
Undergraduate students in STEP-UP move through the program in a supportive cohort model that supplements their pre-medicine and biomedical studies throughout each year of college. Designed to progressively prepare students for medical or graduate school, the curriculum integrates professional skill development, exposure to clinical and research environments, and structured preparation for the admissions process. Students have opportunities to work closely with Ϲ faculty, as well as medical and graduate students, building meaningful mentorship and professional connections.
Participants engage in Science Saturday sessions during the academic year, where they:
- Strengthen study strategies and academic performance
- Explore clinical specialties and research pathways
- Prepare for the MCAT and other admissions requirements
- Develop application materials, including personal statements
- Build professional networks and mentorship relationships
Dates
For prospective Step 1 participants:November 14, 2026
January 23, 2027 *
February 13, 2027 *
March 6, 2027
April 10, 2027
*virtual session
Cohort Structure
Step 1: Building a Professional Perspective
Step 2: Clinical and Research Exploration
Step 3: Application Preparation
Step 4: Admissions & Leadership
Application Timeline
All application materials must be submitted by the deadline to be considered.
College Program Application Requirements and Procedure
How Do I Qualify?
Students must demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing careers in medicine or the biomedical sciences and meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- High school GPA for incoming freshmen
- College GPA for sophomores and above
- Be enrolled at an accredited college or university in Wisconsin
- Be able to travel to the Ϲ–Milwaukee campus one Saturday per month during the academic year
Eligibility
How to Apply
To complete your application, please submit/upload the following materials:
- A completed online application
- A current resume or CV
- High school transcripts (for incoming freshmen) or college transcripts (unofficial transcripts accepted)
- Two completed recommendation forms (at least one must be academic; recommendations from friends or family members will not be considered)
All eligible applicants will be required to participate in a virtual (Zoom) interview as part of the selection process.
Student Testimonials
"My favorite aspects of StEP-UP programming is that we are connected with people on campus who help us curate our road to medical school. I felt that I have been able to be a part of a community of people who cared for and looked out for one another."
College StEP-UP participant
"Although bitter sweet to see everyone leave for the summer, it was amazing to see participants matriculate into Ϲ."
College StEP-UP participant
"I enjoyed meeting students in all different stages of their careers with amazing and aspiring goals. I loved having a 1-1 mentor who was nothing less than empowering. I found myself looking forward to all sessions which were also enjoyable.”
College StEP-UP participant