Engagement Opportunities

student in a lab conducting a task

There are endless engagement opportunities for undergrads on (and near) campus. Below are a few engagement opportunities specifically for students from diverse or underrepresented groups. 

We define "engagement opportunities" as meaningful experiences outside of the classroom where students learn and develop the skills, insight and knowledge to be successful as leaders, professionals and global citizens.

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Mentoring Programs

Maroon & Gold Network

Discover your path, build social capital, explore different majors and industries, get resume advice and hone your interview skills. The Maroon and Gold Network is a vibrant community and growing every day - sign up in less than 2 minutes and instantly connect with University of Minnesota students and alumni for career advice, networking, and mentorship.


LGBTQIA Mentor Program

The LGBTQIA Mentor Program seeks to empower students to enhance their learning experience, build community, attain personal growth and live fuller lives. 


Pride Alumni Network

The Pride Alumni Network is an affinity network of the University of Minnesota Alumni Association. This is a collaborative initiative seeking to strengthen the bond between LGBTQIA+ alumni, students, and the University.


ASPIRE Peer Mentoring Program

Asian American Pacific Islander Students Promoting Inspiration, Resilience, and Empowerment (ASPIRE) Peer Mentoring Program program is a program to help AAPI students find community, have a space where they feel like they belong, and to help them thrive at the U. 


Women in Technology (WIT) Mentorship Program

Mentoring is a vital component for ensuring women continue to grow and succeed in the tech industry. Women make up a minority of those in the industry, and it can be difficult to find role models, advisers, guides, and cheerleaders who understand specific challenges of the field. The WIT mentorship program matches mentees and mentors applicants together twice a year, in fall and spring cohorts. 


North Star STEM Alliance

This program supports undergraduate students majoring in STEM (CSE, CBS, and CFANS) who come from various underrepresented and multicultural backgrounds. The program includes peer mentors who are student leaders within their colleges who work toward increasing academic success and engagement of other underrepresented students in STEM disciplines. 


A Friend in STEM

A Friend in STEM is a mentorship program that connects undergraduate students interested in STEM with scientists at the University of Minnesota. Hosted by Empowering Women in Science.

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Multicultural Summer Research Opportunities Program

MSROP is an intensive 10-week summer program in which undergraduate students of color work full-time with a faculty mentor on a research project. The cohort-based program includes a series of seminars preparing students for graduate school and developing research skills.  


North Star STEM Alliance

This program supports undergraduate students majoring in STEM (CSE, CBS, and CFANS) who come from various underrepresented and multicultural backgrounds. 


McNair Scholars Program

The McNair Scholars program gives undergraduate students intensive, faculty-driven research experience and prepares them for entry into and success in graduate school. Read more about the program and find out more about the outstanding career outcomes for U of M McNair scholars.

Studying Away and Abroad

Learning Away (in the United States)

Study at an HBCU (Historically Black College or University), AANIPISI (Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution), or an HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution) for a semester or year through the National Student Exchange

Learning Abroad

The Learning Abroad Center recognizes and supports a diverse student population on its study and volunteer abroad programs. Consult these specific resources if you identify as an LGBTQIA student, Multicultural student, or a student with disabilities as you consider and prepare for your experience abroad.

Community Building Opportunities

Cultural Centers on Campus

Some of the most influential and active student organizations are the 2nd floor cultural centers in the student union. The 2nd floor offers space for studying and community gathering. Each cultural center provides educational opportunities, social connections, and a safe space for their identity group.


Living Learning Communities (LLC)

Connect with other students who share similar life experiences, interests, and academic goals in one of over 30 programs. LLCs bring students to live together in a dedicated area of a university residence hall or apartment. Many LLC communities focus on identity and/or culture to create a unique and supportive housing option for your college experience. 


Multicultural Greek Life at the U of M

Students interested in joining a culturally-based fraternity or sorority can attend the Multicultural Greek Meet and Greet during the first few weeks of the fall semester. Students interested in joining a Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) or National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) fraternity or sorority are encouraged to contact the organizations directly. 

Career Exploration & Support

Career Services

Career Services is here to help all students and attends to the unique career needs of specifically identified populations: students with disabilities, international students, LGBTQIA students, multicultural students, women, or veterans.

Honors & Awards

Scholarly Excellence in Equity and Diversity (SEED) Awards

The Scholarly Excellence in Equity and Diversity (SEED) Awards honor underrepresented undergraduate, graduate, and professional students for their outstanding work in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion while at the University of Minnesota and in the community.


American Indian Environmental Leadership Scholarship

The American Indian Environmental Leadership Scholarship recognizes highly motivated American Indian students with a dedication to protecting natural resources, while serving future generations, their community, and the world.


Sharon L. Doherty Student Leadership Award

The Sharon L. Doherty Student Leadership Award is given to a University of Minnesota student who has demonstrated outstanding volunteer service concerning women's issues on campus or in the broader community.