Congratulations on your admission to Michigan State University! As you explore the many options you have to get connected to a community of learners, please take a moment to consider how participating in the RISE living-learning community in Bailey Hall can enhance your experience at MSU. The RISE program is open to all incoming students regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, or any other protected characteristic.
The Residential Initiative on the Study of the Environment (RISE) is a living-learning community devoted to understanding the complex interdependence of the human and natural world. RISE is a residential option open to all incoming students.
Interested?
Application closed April 17, 2026 for the incoming cohort.
Got questions? Reach out to Dr. Jorhie Beadle at beadlej1@msu.edu.
Why RISE
Our rapidly changing environment opens up a world of opportunities for students passionate about sustainability and environmental stewardship. Michigan State University ranks as one of the nation's top universities for sustainability and it's where next-generation leaders gain the experience needed to address some of the world's biggest environmental challenges. The RISE Program provides an entry point for all students interested in the environment to connect with a community of scholars who share their passion for sustainability via a variety of environmental areas including:
- Sustainable Agriculture and Horticulture
- Zoology and Animal Science (including Veterinary Medicine)
- Green Business
- Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Engineering
- Environmental Education
What does RISE provide?
Employers look for real-world experience working with real-world problems. A wealth of opportunities are available to RISE students. Including:
- Undergraduate research experience
- Volunteer opportunities in Bailey GREENhouse
- In-hall career and transition advising
- First-year Environmental Studies Seminar
- Leadership opportunities
- In-hall peer mentoring
- Internship assistance
- Living in Bailey Hall (LEED-certified residence hall in the Brody Neighborhood)
The RISE Program provides many unique opportunities while living and learning in a close-knit community, fostering friendships and an intellectual curiosity that persists for a lifetime
RISE Scholarships
Donald F. Koch and Barbara J. Sawyer-Koch Endowed Scholarship
The Donald F. Koch and Barbara J. Sawyer-Koch Environmental Studies Spartan Scholarship Challenge is designated to support students with high financial need, eligible by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligible students must also have completed the RISE application and demonstrate a commitment to environmental studies and sustainability during their high school years.
Farha 'Go Green' Scholarship
Thanks to this generous gift from Gary and Sue Farha, RISE students can apply for a Farha 'Go Green' Scholarship to support their development as an environmental leader. Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis to support tuition needs and high impact practices including internships, undergraduate research, conference attendance and more.
"Gary has always been committed to the development of young people, particularly in his field of renewable energy and sustainability," said Sue, who earned her Master of Business Administration from MSU in 1982. "By establishing this scholarship fund at MSU, we can provide opportunities for students to pursue their passion in this field and contribute to the exciting challenges that lie ahead."
Navdeep Kaur and Maulik Dhandha Endowed Scholarship
Drs. Navdeep and Maulik Dhandha have established an endowed scholarship for RISE students who demonstrate exceptional community engagement, academic excellence and commitment to environmental stewardship. Each April, one scholarship of $2000 is awarded to a RISE student who demonstrates the criteria of this scholarship.
Soichiro Kurachi Endowed Scholarship
President and CEO of Japan Corn Starch, Soichiro Kurachi has established an endowed scholarship for RISE students who demonstrate commitment to environmental leadership. Each April, awards of $1000-$2000 are made to two RISE students who demonstrate excellence in academics and environmental stewardship.
