First2 Network
The First2 Network brings together organizations representing higher education institutions, K-12 education, federally funded research labs and industry associations aimed at improving the graduation rate of undergraduate STEM students, with emphasis on rural, first-generation students through their first two years of college.
STEM Graduation Goal
Double STEM graduates
From 30% to 60% in West Virginia within 10 years
Collaborative Culture
Build sustainable network
Define barriers and test improvements for rural students
Research Study
Comprehensive analysis
Study factors affecting rural, first-generation STEM students
Model Program
Expand to EPSCoR states
Create model and expand to 2 additional states within 5 years
Research Internship for First2 Students at WVU & Marshall University
Funding
Funding for First2 students at WVU and Marshall
Pay Rate
$18/hour for 15 hours per week
Duration
25 weeks during 2024-2025 academic year
Timeline
Mid-October 2024 to April 30, 2025
Requirements
Research Internship for First2 Students at Primarily Undergraduate Institutions
Participating Institutions
Funding
Maximum of 3 internships available
Pay Rate
$18/hour for 15 hours per week
Duration
25 weeks during 2024-2025 academic year
Timeline
Mid-October 2024 to April 30, 2025
Requirements
Network Benefits
Resources
WV-INBRE Connection
WV-INBRE hopes to recruit high-achieving First2 students as they enter college. First2 administrators will direct interested students to apply for INBRE biomedical research internships.