The following learning community is available for the 2025-26 academic year:
PRISM (promoting research, innovation and scientific mindset)
Are you interested in science and excited to explore your interest with like-minded peers? If so, joining PRISM may be a great way to start your college career. The PRISM Learning Community provides advising, peer mentoring and career guidance to students pursuing disciplines within the STEM disciplines. Students build community by taking some of their required general education courses together and meet with peer and faculty mentors.
It is open to first-year students interested in any of the following academic programs: biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, mathematics or physics. Students in PRISM will enroll in a first-year Introduction to the Flourishing Life (SC 101) course together and take their required math course with peers from their SC 101 course. This learning community promotes belonging and building the skills necessary to be successful in college and beyond.
- Build community through shared courses
- Take SC 101: Introduction to the Flourishing Life (required for all Whitworth students) together taught by a STEM faculty member
- Take their required math course with peers from their SC 101 course
- Build community through mentoring
- Receive faculty mentoring in their discipline
- Meet with peer mentors who are more senior STEM majors
- Build community through career exploration
- Engage with STEM alumni career panels to explore career opportunities
- Participate in career treks to visit regional STEM corporations and employers
Frequently Asked Questions
How long am I a member of PRISM?
The PRISM learning community is designed to help you get a great start in your first year but faculty mentoring and career development will continue throughout your time at Whitworth. You are also welcome to become a peer mentor for future incoming PRISM members.
If I am a member of PRISM, am I taking any extra courses?
No, all Whitworth students will take SC 101 in their first semester, and all STEM majors must take a math course to graduate.
What if I change my major?
If you change your major within STEM, you can still be a member of PRISM. If you change majors into something outside of STEM, we will help you connect with a new faculty advisor.
Get Connected
If you are interested in being considered for PRISM, please let us know on the academic interest form. If you would like to speak to a PRISM faculty member, please email Associate Professor Kerry Breno at kbreno@whitworth.edu.