Eastern Michigan University is highlighting two major academic initiatives in a new episode of EMU Today TV, focusing on the Honors College and the Health Professional Pathway Hub. These programs are designed to enhance student achievement from undergraduate through graduate studies.
The episode begins by examining the EMU Honors College, which serves nearly 1,000 students and is set to graduate its largest class since 2019. The College emphasizes personalized advising, smaller classes, and a supportive community for high-achieving students. Dean Ann Eisenberg explained that the college recruits through its Presidential Scholarship Program, offering 21 full-ride scholarships annually, as well as a holistic admissions process considering multiple factors beyond test scores.
“Some of the most extraordinary students I’ve worked with weren’t stars in high school,” said Eisenberg. “They blossomed once they arrived at Eastern. That’s why we offer multiple pathways into the Honors College. Talent develops at different rates, and we’re committed to opening doors for every student ready to take that next step.”
The program also highlights increased involvement in undergraduate research and national competitions such as the Goldwater Scholarship. Alumni have continued their studies at institutions like Harvard and Yale or taken leadership roles in various fields. Expanding funding for travel, conferences, and competition preparation remains a priority.
“We want our students to compete — and succeed — on state and national stages,” added Eisenberg. “Whether it’s research, internships, or prestigious scholarships, our job is to make sure they have the support, mentoring, and opportunities to show the world what Eastern students can do.”
The second segment covers the Health Professional Pathway Hub within EMU’s College of Health and Human Services. Opened last fall with over 100 attendees at its launch event, more than 250 students have since participated in its workshops and mentoring programs each month.
“The Health Professional Pathway Hub is quickly becoming a true one-stop resource for our students,” said Dean Jennifer Kellman-Fritz. “The message we keep hearing is, ‘Where was this before?’ We’re building a space where students feel supported, connected, and confident as they explore the many careers in health and human services.”
A notable feature is the Health Professional Pathway Camp for grades 7–10; after enrolling 30 participants with an additional waitlist last year, expansion plans are underway for June. The Hub will also begin an alumni mentoring program pairing current students with graduates for job shadowing and career guidance.
“Our goal is to open doors for students from middle school through graduate study by showing them the full range of meaningful careers in health and human services,” said Associate Dean Andrea Zakrajsek. “Whether it’s workshops, advising, or our new pathway camp, we’re helping students discover where their strengths and passions align — and giving them the support to pursue those paths.”
EMU Today TV aims to showcase university programs that contribute to student success through academic excellence and workforce-focused support.
Eastern Michigan University has evolved from its origins as a teacher training institution into a comprehensive public university offering over 200 undergraduate majors alongside graduate programs (https://limpar.locallabs.com/organizations/fccf7cfd-e318-451a-af26-512e09166ca8). The university operates from its main campus in Ypsilanti while providing online learning opportunities (https://www.emich.edu/). Nationally recognized for education and health sciences programs (https://www.emich.edu/), EMU prepares its more than 12,000 enrolled students with skills aimed at societal contribution (https://www.emich.edu/) through hands-on learning experiences.
