University of Maryland, Baltimore CURE Scholars Program

As the first middle school program funded by the National Cancer Institute’s Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE), the UMB CURE Scholars Program identifies sixth-graders with an interest in science from three West Baltimore middle schools and supports these scholars throughout middle school, high school, and beyond. The UMB CURE Scholars Program is designed to support under-represented minority students by exposing them to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers, exciting experiments, and inspiring mentors. Scholars participate in after-school hands-on experiments; Saturday tutoring and life skill development workshops; and a comprehensive summer academic enrichment component. Scholars are selected based on their commitment to a long-term program and not based on academic performance measures. Through rich scientific opportunities, scholars gain presentation experience, academic growth, self-confidence, and the motivation necessary to succeed. The ultimate goal is to increase the pool of under-represented minorities pursuing careers in STEM, health care, and cancer research.