Enhanced Academic Experience

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University Scholars have the opportunity participate in a unique four-year co-curricular program that supplements their individual courses of study. This program allows students to pursue long-term projects of their design, and it connects them directly with faculty, policymakers, and innovators outside of campus.  By the time they complete this program, each University Scholar will be able to show potential employers, as well as graduate and professional schools, specific evidence of their capacity to think critically, to work with a team, and to generate innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

Year 1 New University Scholars work together to develop a unifying theme.

Year 2 In the week prior to the fall term, students participate in the University Scholars Institute. Students travel to relevant sites in the National Capital Region, meet with experts and practitioners, and work with Mason faculty to develop a better understanding of this topic.

Year 3 University Scholars design and pursue their Third-Year Projects – ranging from research projects to service projects, entrepreneurial plans to creative exhibits and performances – that relate to the class them.

Year 4 The University Scholars host a symposium based on their theme, sharing their work with the University and featuring a keynote speaker of their choosing.

• Schedule for the University Scholars Institute 2012
• Highlights from the University Scholars Institute 2011

 

University Scholars Portfolio

University Scholars document their achievements, development, and experiences with regularly updated portfolios. These portfolios help Honors College staff guide and mentor Scholars, and they help Scholars think holistically about their intellectual growth, academic progress, and professional development.