Calling Creative Thinkers: We’ve Got a New Opportunity for You

Students talk at the IDEA Factory's outdoor patio

Apply to iSTEM@UMD

Eligible students: Newly admitted engineering students
Program costs: Free!
Application deadline: Friday, April 17, 2026

We recognize that everyone learns differently and needs individualized support to help them achieve their dreams. iSTEM@UMD is our newest program to help them do it.

About the program

iSTEM@UMD is an initiative designed to fuel the creativity and passion of our unconventional learners and neurodivergent students, providing a launchpad for their ingenuity and a supportive environment for their creativity to thrive.

A partnership between the A. James Clark School of Engineering, the College of Behavioral & Social Sciences, and the Provost’s Office designed to catalyze the success of newly admitted unconventional learners, iSTEM@UMD offers:

Community: An onboarding experience allowing you to start building connections that will last you a lifetime.
Support: Fee-free access to the renowned UMD SUCCEEDS Clinic for ADHD to help you navigate the challenges of the college environment.
Mentorship: Work directly with an iSTEM Faculty Director and SUCCEEDS Coordinator who serves as your coach, mentor, and advocate.
Experiences: Choose from Vertically Integrated Projects, Cooperative education, Xperiment entrepreneurship program, Clark in Madrid, or a social impact minor program.
Preparation: A dedicated career accelerator to ensure you have a clear path to internships and career success after graduation.

It’s free to students!

iSTEM@UMD has been generously supported by our proud Maryland Engineering alum Emilio A. Fernandez, a serial entrepreneur, business leader, innovator, and unconventional thinker, meaning you can participate in this great new opportunity for free. Read more!

From career counseling to our WIE and CMSE programs, the Clark School is proud to support learners from all backgrounds.