Development of the Reinvigorating Engineering and Changing History (REACH) program: A cohort experience for first-time Graduate Students

Abstract

In 2009, the Reinvigorating Engineering and Changing History (REACH) Scholars Program was developed at a Midwestern University to offer qualified Master's and direct Ph.D. engineering students opportunities to explore multiple academic pathways and to work closely with their peers and with faculty to create a community of scholars who will be prepared broadly for careers across multiple domains. Informed from research, a central feature of the REACH Scholars Program is the use of a multiple apprenticeship model consisting of five features (intentionality; multiple relationships; collective responsibility; recognition; and respect, trust, and reciprocity) in which mentors will introduce Scholars to the engineering community and will provide them with a variety of perspectives to help them succeed as Scholars. The implementation of these five tenets enhances the professional development of Scholars via intentionally establishing multiple mentoring relationships within a collaborative learning environment. Other features of the program include Scholar participation in professional development workshops and seminars; engagement in research and grant writing groups; collaboration with existing campus programs to create sustainable communities across diverse graduate student populations; and the development of research skills. This paper provides an overview of the program and research questions that are being explored via the participation of students and mentors in the program. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2010.