Any student who enters Gustavus to study science or mathematics knows they’ll spend a lot of time in a lab during their four years on the Hill. For many of these undergrads, this early exposure begins in the FYRE Program.
The First-Year Research Experience Program began in 2009 as a way for students in the natural sciences and math to work on “bona fide research” projects during the summer between their first and second year. “We think big and always try to have a student-centric approach to our research in the sciences because that can lead to things like fellowships, research opportunities, graduate school, and jobs,” says Amanda Nienow, co-chair of the Gustavus Department of Chemistry and FYRE Program director.
After being established with a grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, the FYRE Program hummed along for about five years until the grant ended. By then, FYRE had shown such promising results that the College found other ways to keep funding components of it. As one of the College’s more competitive research opportunities—about a half-dozen students are selected every summer from more than 25 applicants— FYRE introduces students to all aspects of research-focused careers, including presenting their work to professors and peers, panel discussions and networking with relevant Gustavus alums, field trips to graduate and professional organizations, and career development assistance with tasks such as curriculum vitae writing, applying for other opportunities and grad school, and interviewing practice. Much of this programming is available to all Gusties, but being a part of FYRE provides VIP access to all of it. Though it’s not promised students will get into it, Nienow says, “We’ve heard many people at admissions events say they’re coming to Gustavus because we have this program.”
