2014-18
McKearn Fellows
Call
for Applications
OVERVIEW:
The
McKearn Fellows Program will allow ten high-achieving students to have a
transformative academic and engaged learning experience that will lay a solid
foundation for future success and life-long learning. The program encompasses
three modules: research and artistry design; leadership development; and civic,
social and global engagement. Selection as a McKearn Fellow bestows one of NIU's
most prestigious honors and provides an unparalleled educational experience.
Over the course of the program, Fellows will be guided to create a distinctive
plan of course work and engagement activities that will foster their
intellectual curiosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to civic
engagement as they move down the path towards student career success. Funded by
a major gift from John and Cassandra McKearn, the Program will highlight and
advance the skills, knowledge, and achievement of some of NIU's top
students.
DATES:
·
Applications
will be available on October 1 and close on October 31 at 12 noon; no late
applications will be accepted, for any reason
·
Student
information sessions, where they can meet former McKearn Summer Fellows and
members of the McKearn Administrative Team, are being held September 9, 17, and
25 from 5-6 p.m. in CLB 110 (University Honors Center). Interested students need
attend only one of these sessions
·
For
more information and the application (when available on October 1) visit: http://www.niu.edu/mckearn/
BENEFITS:
·
Explore
research and artistry; leadership; and civic, social, and global engagement in
one's selected field of study
·
Enroll
in special academic classes and opportunities
·
Develop
and complete an intensive research or artistry project
·
Participate
in Undergraduate Research and Artistry Day, University Honors' Senior Capstone
Project, and other academically-intensive experiences
·
Interact
with leading NIU faculty, alumni, and community partners
·
Participate
in professional and academic enrichment activities; receive funding to present
and attend local, regional, national and even international conferences within
your field of study
·
Receive
additional stipends for support of research and artistry, study abroad, and
other opportunities as determined by the McKearn Academic
Team.
ELIGIBILITY:
·
Highly
motivated first-year, freshmen students (newly admitted to NIU in Fall
2014)
·
Strong
commitment to academic and personal excellence, as evidenced by previous
involvement and achievement
·
Cumulative
grade point average of 3.5 or above, for fall 2014 (once verified) and for the
duration of enrollment in the program
While
this is not a program that requires nominations, we are asking you to identify
and then encourage any first year, freshmen student who may demonstrate such
talent and achievement to apply.
Those
who are selected to interview will be asked for a letter of
recommendation.
