The goal of the C² program is to foster excellence in chemical sciences at Illinois. Undergraduate Chemistry and Chemical Engineering majors from underrepresented groups (African American, LatinX, and Native American) are encouraged to apply. By partnering with graduate student mentors and engaging in monthly networking and professional development events, C2 brings together faculty and students from the School of Chemical Sciences to build a community of scholars in which diversity and excellence thrive.
Monthly professional development workshops and networking events are combined with one-on-one peer mentorship, and student affiliates are also eligible to apply for Summer Research Scholarships sponsored by the 3M Corporation and competitive Travel Awards to present their research at National conferences such as NOBCChE, SACNAS, and ABRCMS.
Program Contacts: Lisa Olshansky, lolshans@illinois.edu; Patricia Simpson, plblum@illinois.edu; Josè Andino Martinez, andinoma@illinois.edu; Damien Guironnet, guironne@illinois.edu; Tepora Su'a, tsua@illinois.edu
Monthly C2 Events
Monthly events generally include a Networking and Food segment, giving participants an opportunity to talk with their mentors, make new friends, meet professors, and eat free food. And that's generally followed by a Professional Development segment, featuring things like workshop activities, panel speakers, and award presentations.
Professional Development Activities for Fall 2022
September 8 — Kick Off event
What: Featuring food from Maize, conversation, and a brief overview of the program.
Where: Centennial Plaza (between Noyes Lab and Chem Annex) followed by a short session in Noyes 157.
September 26 — Graduate Student Panel
What: Graduate students on the panel share what it was like to start graduate school.
Plus, a second opportunity for students to sign up for the mentor program.
Where: RAL 116/117
October 18 – How to Join a Research Group
What: Dynamic and interactive session on how to join a research group.
Where: Noyes lab 209
November 17 – Exploring Career Paths
What: Discussion on applying to graduate school.
And hear from those who attended NOBCChE and SACNAS conferences.
Where: RAL 116/117
Upcoming Deadlines
None at this time.