What Is President's Emerging Scholars?
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.
Program Benefits
PES students have access to:
Individualized Academic Advising
Individualized advising in their college of enrollment
Priority Registration
Early course registration each semester, allowing them to create schedules that better fit their needs, preferences, and interests
Scholarships
A $1,000 scholarship in their first and last years at the University. Additional scholarships set aside exclusively for PES students, including:
- Engagement Scholarship for internships, learning abroad, undergraduate research, and more
- Fund the Gap Scholarship for study abroad
- Funds offered in collaboration with partner organizations like the University of Minnesota Foundation
Success Coaching
Professional mentors who meet regularly with pre-selected PES students throughout their time at the University
Peer Mentoring
A near-peer who acts as a personal coach and friend for the first and second years of college
Special Programs & Events
Courses and events set aside exclusively for PES students to aid in making life-long friends and building the 21st-century skills needed for college success, including:
- Emerge Summer Leadership Institute, a free one-week summer program for incoming students focused on leadership and community development
- Courses and events offered by our central office and students’ college of enrollment
Eligibility
Students are selected for the PES community based on holistic review conducted by the Office of Admissions. Admitted students have strong academic and leadership experiences, connect in meaningful ways with their high schools and neighborhoods, and demonstrate resilience through their overcoming of personal and systemic barriers.
If you’re interested in being a member of the PES community, check the box in the Freshman Application indicating your interest in PES, and you’ll be considered (no guarantees!) for admission to the program.
