President’s Emerging Scholars (PES) is a student success program that supports a select cohort of University of Minnesota students, primarily first-generation college students and students from low-income backgrounds.
Through a comprehensive, holistic model - including scholarship support, customized courses and events, academic advising, peer mentoring, success coaching, and other innovative initiatives - PES provides the resources, relationships, and opportunities students need to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.
Students are selected for PES through a holistic review conducted by the Office of Admissions. PES participants bring strong academic preparation and demonstrated leadership, along with meaningful connections to their schools, families, and communities. They also exhibit resilience through their ability to navigate and overcome personal and systemic barriers. Collectively, PES students demonstrate distinctive strengths that make them valuable contributors to the University community.
PES students reflect a broad range of lived experiences and identities. Many are the first in their families to attend college and come from low-income or working-class backgrounds. The program also includes older students, rural students, student parents, students for whom English is not a first language, and students with disabilities.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Mission
The mission of the PES Program is to ensure timely graduation of its participants by encouraging and supporting academic, career, and personal wellbeing through scholarships, programming, professional advising, success coaching, and peer mentoring.
Vision
Our vision is that all PES students will attain self-determined success.
Values
Authenticity: Openness and honesty increase organizational effectiveness.
Community: Relationships and sense of belonging are essential.
Integrity: PES serves its stakeholders honestly and ethically.
Quality: PES practice is research-informed, innovative, and collaborative.
Self-Determination: Students are expert in defining and attaining their goals.
Student Success: Students’ holistic wellbeing is paramount.
Program Components
PES students who actively engage with the program’s expectations receive a $1,000 scholarship in both their first and final years at the University. Participants benefit from individualized academic advising, success coaching, and peer mentoring; access to scholarships reserved exclusively for PES students; and curated courses and events designed to foster lifelong connections and build the essential 21st-century skills needed for success in college and beyond.
Note: The current minimum GA rate of pay for PES is $27/hour.