STEM Study Squads
STEM Study Squads are small, peer-led groups designed to help undergraduate students stay on track, deepen their understanding of course material, and build consistent study habits. Each squad brings together students in similar STEM courses or disciplines to create a supportive, collaborative space for working through challenging concepts, preparing for exams, and sharing strategies for success.
Grounded in accountability and connection, STEM Study Squads encourage students to set goals, follow through on their plans, and learn alongside peers who understand the demands of STEM coursework. Through regular meetings, participants strengthen problem-solving skills, build confidence, and develop a sense of belonging within the STEM community.
More than just study groups, STEM Study Squads foster momentum, persistence, and shared success—helping students not only keep up, but move forward together.
Sign up for a STEM Study Squad!
Registration is open for the fall semester.
Why join a STEM Study Squad?
- Builds consistent study habits through shared accountability
- Improves understanding of challenging STEM concepts through peer collaboration
- Increases motivation and follow-through on academic goals
- Provides a supportive community of peers in similar courses or majors
- Strengthens problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Prepares students more effectively for exams and major assignments
- Reduces feelings of isolation in rigorous STEM courses
- Encourages active learning rather than passive studying
- Helps students share strategies, resources, and study techniques
- Boosts confidence in academic abilities and STEM identity
- Creates structure and routine for managing coursework
- Fosters a sense of belonging within the STEM community
Details
- Meeting times: weekly for 90 minutes.
- Each weekly meeting will have 10 minutes for checking in and goal setting, 70 minutes for individual work time, and 10 minutes for debriefing about goals, doing a personal check-in, and discussing plans for the week.
- Fall 2026 schedule: September 20 through December 9 (no meetings the week of Thanksgiving or finals).
- Squad details: For fall 2026, there are two squads for all majors/years, and two squads reserved for first and second year students with biology-related majors. See the sign-up sheet for details.
- Attendance expectations: attendance will be taken to encourage consistent participation.
- Squad leaders: Groups are led by WISCIENCE STEM Engagement Peer Leaders.
- During open registration at the beginning of each semester, click the link to the sign-up sheet. Add your name and email address to the column of the group you’re signing up for.
- If there is open space in the column, there is still space in the group. Note the capacity of each group in the column headers.
- Once you have added your name, the peer leader will contact you to confirm within 24 hours.
- Note: The expectation for STEM Study Squads is that you are signing up to participate each week. Any absences should be communicated with the peer leader facilitating the group.
If you have questions about signing up, we’re here to help—just email Keegan Buscaino.
FAQs
How do I join a STEM Study Squad?
You can join during open registration at the beginning of the semester. The available meeting times will be listed on the sign-up sheet (the link to the sheet will be available during open registration).
Will there be students from my major in my group?
Yes. Squads will be based on a combination of major/interest area and year. For example, first and second year biology majors will be in the same Squad. You will sign up for the Squad that best aligns with your academic interests.
I am a transfer student. Is there a group that will be good for me?
You are welcome to join any STEM Study Squad! There is not a group specific to transfer students.
Is there an attendance policy?
There is not an attendance policy. However, regular attendance will lead to the best academic benefit. If you can no longer attend a meeting you signed up for, please cancel by notifying the Peer Leader so we can open a space for others to join.
What if I am interested in participating but none of these times work for me?
Email Keegan Buscaino at buscaino@wisc.edu and let her know when you are available for a session. If there is enough interest and availability from our facilitators, we may be able to add additional sessions. You will be notified if this is the case.
What if the group time I want is full?
If a group time is full, continue to check the sign-up spreadsheet throughout the semester. Individuals may need to cancel their registration, which would open up a space.
Can I register for more than one group time?
Yes! You can sign up for any open groups/times.