Welcome to the Next-Gen Now blog! As incoming students look for a sense of community during the admissions process,  they are invited to join a community of scholars based on their experiences and defining identities that have played central roles in their lives. Our scholars have taken many different paths on their educational journey, some exhilarating, some transformative, and many with great difficulty. All have ultimately led them to the University of Michigan. Next-Gen provides support throughout these rigorous academic years via peer-to-peer mentorship, Lunch ‘n’ Learns, social events, and shared meals. 

Spearheaded by Kim Elliott, School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) Assistant Dean, the blog aligns with the dream of a greater community: 

“Serving as both a leader and collaborator in the Next-Gen Scholars program has been a source of inspiration and optimism for me during an era marked by global uncertainty. Collaborating with a diverse group of passionate scholars, I’ve seen firsthand how dedication to learning and community can create an incredible environment to thrive.” -Kim Elliott

This is the first blog series ever created by Next Generation Scholars at the School for Environment and Sustainability. Here you can find helpful information and the stories of past and present cohorts that may resonate with and inspire you as you begin or continue your academic journey. We will offer tips and suggestions based on gathered student experiences at SEAS that will make navigating the next two to three years of your graduate student life a little easier.  Our goal is to bring student stories to light, allowing students to feel both seen and a sense of community away from home. The community starts here. As you read our stories, feel free to contact us with any questions or ideas, and if you are interested, share your story once you join Next-Gen! 

For those who do not know, the Next Generation Scholars Program is meant to bring the community together by offering support through events and peer-to-peer interactions during graduate school. One Next-Gen scholar, Marianna, explains why she's part of the program.

“I want to be part of a community that embraces differences and wants to have a place to feel like home away from home.” - Marianna, 2nd year Next-Gen scholar

Stay connected and email us with any questions at [email protected]. 

-Next-Gen Now!