Boot camp flyerEach fall, the Graduate Fellowship and Application Boot Camp brings to Duke undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM. The Boot Camp will encourage participants to think critically about their research interests and skills, provide practical strategies for the graduate admissions process, and introduce participants to Duke’s STEM graduate programs. The Boot Camp is sponsored by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, the Duke University Center of Exemplary Mentoring, the Pratt School of Engineering, the School of Medicine, The Graduate School, the Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, and the Athena Institute.

Duke celebrates the unique backgrounds and varied life experiences of each student, and understands the value of establishing a full representation of differing perspectives within the academic life of the university. The Boot Camp is part of the university’s efforts to foster an inclusive environment that supports creativity, innovation, and a strong sense of community.

September 2023 Boot Camp Details

For fall 2023, the Boot Camp will feature opportunities for both virtual and in-person engagement.

  • The virtual boot camp will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023, 9:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m. for undergraduates and post-baccalaureate students at any stage of study.
    • Deadline for registration for the virtual boot camp is September 11, 2023.
  • We will also have an in-person opportunity at Duke University for a select number of senior students or post-baccalaureate students, which will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Travel scholarships will be available to cover transportation and lodging. Students who are eligible and interested in the in-person workshop will be prompted for additional materials during the registration process.
    • Deadline for consideration for the in-person workshop is August 15, 2023. Selected students will be notified by the end of August.

There is no registration cost for either the virtual or in-person session.

Boot Camp participants will receive in-depth information on these topics and more:

  • How do I know if graduate school is for me?
  • What is the difference between a master’s and a Ph.D. and the career opportunities for each path?
  • The graduate school admission process and how to develop a competitive application
  • Duke graduate programs and research opportunities
  • Duke Graduate school funding and fellowship opportunities
  • Summer research opportunities at Duke
  • Meet faculty and students in your research interests

Registration

Boot Camp attendees must complete the correct registration form below to verify their eligibility.

Registration Dates

  • For September 14 online session: Register by September 11, 2023 using this form
  • For September 15 in-person workshop: Apply by August 15, 2023 using this form

After the in-person deadline, please e-mail alan.kendrick@duke.edu for instructions.

Criteria

  • Must be available for full online session on September 14 or the full in-person workshop on September 15.
  • Minimum of 3.0 GPA or above.
  • This workshop is intended for students from groups historically underrepresented in computer science, physics, chemistry, earth and ocean sciences, mathematics, statistical science, and engineering. These groups include female/female-identifying students, and students from African-American, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and Native American racial/ethnic groups.
  • Must have an interest in pursuing a graduate degree in chemistry, computer science, mathematics, physics, and statistical science, or related STEM field.
  • Must be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior in the 2023-24 academic year.

To Register

Virtual Event 

In-Person Event 

Questions?

  • Dr. Alan Kendrick (alan.kendrick@duke.edu), Assistant Dean of Graduate Student Development at the Duke University Graduate School