From crime scenes to campus connections: STEMstart kickstarts freshman success

A week before the fall semester officially began, a group of eager first-year students moved into their residence halls, ready to embark on a week of hands-on learning and skill-building. These students had signed up for STEMstart, an early-start program designed to prepare them for the rigors of college-level coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics. Throughout the week, participants engage in a variety of academic sessions, field trips and interactive workshops, all tailored to equip them for the challenges of rigorous science and math courses.

Offered by the College of Arts and Sciences, STEMstart begins with an early move-in where participants settle into their residence halls. After checking in, students experience a familiar scene that many freshmen encounter a week later: the emotional Parent Send-Off. This moment, filled with goodbyes and well-wishes, marks the official start of their freshman year. Following this heartfelt farewell, the students dive into team-building activities designed to foster connections among peers and ease their transition into university life.

The STEMstart program immerses participants in dynamic learning experiences that lay the groundwork for their future studies. At Stroud's Run, a local state park, students arrived to find a crime scene staged just for them, complete with a mannequin that simulated decomposition. In this hands-on activity, titled "CSI Athens," they collaborated to dust for fingerprints and piece together evidence, applying their scientific knowledge in a thrilling, practical scenario.

Stephanie Miller, STEMstart co-director and associate professor of instruction, emphasized that a core highlight of the program is its focus on community.

"This program is designed to provide a supportive community and ease the transition to college," she said.

Miller emphasized that STEMstart is inclusive, welcoming all students, whether they face challenges in transitioning to college or are high achievers looking to make friends.

That sense of community shines throughout the week, whether students are participating in math sessions and assessments that are led by at least four math instructors (including lead teacher Erik Boczko), or heading out for an aquatic biology field trip, doing fieldwork and learning about aquatic ecosystems. In addition, a genetics session in the biology department labs, led by the director of the OHIO Genomics Facility, provides practical experience in cutting-edge scientific research.

Beyond these academic activities, students meet with faculty, connect with peer mentors who have successfully navigated their first year in science majors, and network with OHIO alumni who work in STEM. These experiences are designed not only to build confidence and familiarity with college-level expectations but also to foster a sense of community among incoming students, helping them feel supported and prepared for the challenges ahead.

STEMstart is more than just an academic program; it is a chance for students to explore campus resources, develop essential study skills, and build a support network. Participants learn about resources like Alden Library and Baker University Center, attend sessions on Bobcat living skills, and participate in a “campus resources hunt.” Outdoor activities such as canoeing, volleyball and bicycling with mentors also help students form bonds and adjust to university life.

STEMstart Co-director and Associate Professor of Instruction Corey Beck said the students who register for STEMstart come for a variety of reasons.

"It's not just for students who need extra help," he said. “It's a diverse group, and parents appreciate knowing that their children are part of a supportive community."

Dr. Beck expressed his enthusiasm for the program.

"It's one of the highlights of our careers. It's so rewarding to see students grow over the week."

George Boyadjian, a recent Ohio University alum who majored in games and animation as well as psychology, participated in STEMstart as an incoming freshman in 2020.

"The most valuable part of participating in STEMstart my freshman year was gaining so many friends and acquaintances that I would see in all of my classes, labs and study sessions,” he said. “I’m a very extroverted person, so having somebody to go places with made it so much easier to get out and go places!"

He noted that meeting different generations of STEM starters was particularly enjoyable, as he got to hear about their experiences and how the program had changed since before COVID.

"The most memorable experience for me was the forensics lab we did,” Boyadjian said. “It’s not often you get to work a crime scene outside of working as a forensic technician, fake or not! During the lab, we were given the opportunity to do something once in a lifetime: see a chicken breast that had been decaying for a week. The stench was unbearable—something I would never do again, but something I’ll never forget!"

Miller said the impact of STEMstart on student success is evident.

"We have a dedicated team of over 50 professionals who help us organize and support the program,” she said. “Their involvement allows STEMstart to provide a multidisciplinary experience that many students do not typically receive in their first year."

Miller also pointed to partnerships that help make the program possible, such as the OHIO Museum Complex, the Voinovich School, the Academic Achievement Center, and Dr. Elizabeth Fallon and Medea Loibl from the Steven’s Literacy Center. These collaborations allow STEMstart to offer diverse experiences to its students.

Loibl highlighted the recent collaboration between STEMstart and the OHIO Career Ready Campus through the Aspire grant.

"This year, the Aspire grant provided financial support to offset instructor costs, allowing us to offer STEMstart free of charge," Loibl explained. “We're committed to uplifting our local community and making higher education accessible for everyone eager to join our outstanding campus community.”

With new grant funding secured, Loibl said next fall’s STEMstart in 2025 will be offered free of charge to participants.

By offering a structured yet engaging introduction to college life and academics, STEMstart has become a pivotal component of the College of Arts and Sciences’ efforts to support student achievement. As students embark on their academic journeys, the skills and connections gained through STEMstart lay a strong foundation for their success in science majors at Ohio University.