College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Academics

The ANR Institute for Multicultural Students (AIMS) is a one-week program sponsored by the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) at Michigan State University (MSU). For 2025, AIMS B applicants are welcome and encouraged to apply for AIMS.

AIMS Application

What is AIMS?

AIMS is designed to give high school students broad exposure to the food and agricultural sciences, natural resources and related fields.

A career in agriculture or natural resources involves a lot more than farming. There are a wide variety of educational and career opportunities in the food and agricultural sciences, agricultural engineering, environmental and natural resources management, as well as other areas including environmental science, agribusiness, and agriculture education. Many high school students are not aware of these opportunities and it’s our goal to change that with AIMS.

Who can participate in AIMS?  

High school students, in 9th through 11th grades, can participate in AIMS. Most of our student participants come unfamiliar with the broad and diverse fields involved in agriculture and natural resources industries. They are open-minded and interested in learning about these new and different areas.

Students are selected for AIMS based on interest and academic performance in high school. They are known by their teachers and counselors as students who are interested in science, math, business or related areas.

All are welcome and shall receive equal opportunity to participate or apply.

What will I do as an AIMS participant?

You will participate in demonstrations, tours and other hands-on activities designed to give a sampling of what the agriculture and natural resources has to offer. You will also participate in a number of other educational, cultural and social activities.

During your week on campus, you will live in the university residence halls and have meals in the dining halls. 

How much does AIMS cost?

Students participate in AIMS free of charge. The program is supported by the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and a number of other public and private agencies and corporations. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the MSU campus.

When does the program begin?

Program Dates: July 20-25, 2025

Application Deadline: April 11, 2025

We recommend completing your application as early as possible. Late applications will be considered on a space-available basis or put on a waiting list.

How do I apply for AIMS?

AIMS Application

To apply, participants complete the online application. It is your responsibility to ensure your application is complete before April 11, 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For questions or more information contact Stephanie Chau at chaus@msu.edu.

1. Completed AIMS application
2. Two essays
3. Transcript/Grades
4. One Recommendation Form

Applications are due on Monday, April 11, 2025.

Late applications will be considered on a space available basis, or put on a waiting list.

Statement for Disability Inclusion 

Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, service wand activities. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by submitting requests with your application by April 11, 2025. More information is available through the MSU Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities.