Program Benefits

USM Pioneers receive:

• a generous scholarship package (in-state students)
• a laptop computer
• undergraduate research opportunities
• exciting paid internship at a Maine company
• learning community environment
• faculty support and mentors

Pre-College Experience

During the summer before your college freshman year, you will be invited to enjoy a pre-college experience that will give you a preview of your time at USM. This program will include science activities, labs, team building, and an introduction to college life.

Living on Campus

You will be encouraged to live on campus in a common learning environment centered in a single residence hall. The Pioneers program is housed in Philippi Hall which opened in 2001 and is located adjacent to the Costello Sports Complex.

Research and Internships

Students team up with faculty or corporate community members on projects ranging from the design, development, and commercialization of new products and technologies; working with business incubators or non-profit organizations, and faculty projects. During the summer months, internships will supplement your overall education working in areas of direct interest to you.

Upon graduation, you will have up to three summers of paid or unpaid internship experience to help launch your career. Over the last three years, 80% of the student internships in the science, technology, engineering, and math fields at USM received offers for full employment upon graduation.

Faculty Support and Mentors

You will have access to individual advisors and mentors on a regular basis along with peer tutors as needed. The program will provide every effort to help you achieve the success that you hope for.