Search: Rutgers University

Rutgers University Women in Engineering Leadership League (RU WELL)

Traditionally, the field of engineering has been and continues to be primarily occupied by men, with women representing approximately 9% of the engineering workforce. Research indicates that the largest drop out rate for women occurs at the end of the freshman year and beginning of sophomore year. The primary reasons women drop out are a combination of losing interest in science and engineering, being attracted by another field and being discouraged by academic difficulties and low grades. In an effort to address the drop out rate and the needs of women enrolled in an engineering curriculum, the Office of Student Development (OSD) at the School of Engineering has created the Rutgers University Women in Engineering Leadership League.

RU WELL is an innovative program designed to increase the retention and graduation of women in the School of Engineering and to destroy negative stereotypes concerning the ability of women to achieve in an engineering profession. Female students who are in their first and second year of academic study are invited to apply for RU WELL membership. Acceptance is based on prior and current leadership experience and a personal statement outlining future career goals.

Senior level woman, currently in the corporate or academic engineering sectors, mentor the RU WELL members via email. In addition to the e-mentoring, members participate in monthly seminars, leadership workshops, student retreats and utilizing an electronic handheld organizer. As current leaders in their community, RU WELL will help the students envision and plan for their future as tomorrow’s deans, presidents, CEO’s and corporate directors.

Prospective RU WELL Members

If you are a first or second year female engineering student and are interest in becoming a member of RU WELL, please download and complete the following application, which is due on October 8th at noon.

• Application

Current RU WELL Members

First meeting for all new and returning members will be on Wednesday, October 17th from 9 - 10 AM in the Engineering Building Room B-250.