Frequently asked questions

How is the WOSS Program funded?

The WOSS Program is funded by generous private donors. It was established in the Summer of 2024. To make gifts to support the WOSS Program, please contact the Office of Planned Giving. 

How much will it cost me to participate in the WOSS Summer Experience?

Nothing. All costs associated with this program (e.g., travel, meals, and housing) are covered. Moreover, you will receive a stipend at the end of your participation.

What is the difference between the WOSS Program and the WOSS Summer Experience?

The WOSS Program refers to all events, workshops, and experiences provided to students who are selected as Wheaton Outstanding STEM Scholars. One of those experiences (i.e., the first one) is the WOSS Summer Experience. You cannot join the WOSS Program unless you participate in the WOSS Summer Experience. After you complete the summer experience, you and all other Wheaton Outstanding STEM Scholars (includes your cohort and previous cohorts) will participate in additional WOSS Program social events, workshops, and advising meetings. 

How will I benefit from joining the WOSS Program?

The WOSS Summer Experience will provide you with an opportunity to make valuable connections at Wheaton. When the first day of classes begins in the fall, you will already know the campus, several students, and several Wheaton faculty and staff. Therefore, you will be able to quickly adapt to college life, courses, and extracurricular activities. Also, if you find yourself needing any assistance, you will be able to reach out to any of the students, faculty and staff you met during the summer, or any of the Wheaton Outstanding STEM Scholars from previous years. In addition, you will gain research experience and construct a resume and LinkedIn profile, which might make it easier for you to get future jobs or summer internships. Finally, the WOSS Program events during the school year will help you identify future off-campus internships and support you throughout the application process. They will also assist you during the course registration process.

What are your expectations for me?

You are expected to live on campus and participate fully throughout the entire length of the WOSS Summer Experience. Your attendance in the course, the research experience, and the weekend activities is strictly required. After your WOSS Summer Experience ends, you will be expected to actively participate in all WOSS Program events, workshops, and experiences. Don't worry. Your engagement with the WOSS Program will not represent a huge time commitment.

Who will participate in the WOSS Summer Experience?

A total of ten students: Eight incoming first-year Wheaton students and two current Wheaton students, who will serve as peer mentors.

What specific research will I be doing during the WOSS Summer Experience?

You will participate in four one-week research projects. The specific research projects vary by year depending on the faculty members participating as research mentors. For perspective, past research projects have focused on astronomy, cancer biology, cell biology, chemistry, environmental science, molecular parasitology, neuroscience, and physiology. All research projects are designed to allow you to develop skills that will be transferable to a wide range of scientific fields and career paths. Moreover, the weekly research rotations will allow you to explore a wide range of scientific disciplines. 

What will a typical day in the WOSS Summer Experience look like?

On Mondays through Thursdays, you will attend workshops from 9:30 am to 12 pm and conduct research from 1 pm to 5 pm. On weekends, you will participate in fun cohort activities and enjoy any additional down time to rest and/or do anything you enjoy doing.