History of the Program

The Charles Drew Science Enrichment Laboratory was established in 1976 within the College of Natural Science.  Several MSU faculty were instrumental in establishing the Drew Laboratory as a way for students to acquire the mathematics foundation they needed to successfully complete their natural science degrees.  The Drew Laboratory has evolved into the Charles Drew Science Scholars program, with the same supportive nature, expanded to meet other academic and professional needs.

From its inception, the Drew program has supported the success of a large number of science and math students at Michigan State by providing academic support resources and an emotionally supportive environment that encourages student success. Structurally, the program is designed to provide its greatest level of support to students during their freshman and sophomore years—through academic advising, academic skills and cohort-building freshman seminars, small mathematics classes—from Algebra to Calculus I—with additional structured study and concept review/problem solving sessions, and small group enrichment and study assistance for chemistry and biology. The program advises students to enroll in reserved classes in order to facilitate study group and course enrichment activities—and to foster a strong sense of community.