For those looking to pursue a career in engineering, Drexel University is lending a helping hand to assist with the cost of college thanks to a new scholarship.
The Schleyer Scholars Program was developed from a $2 million dollar pledge from alumnus William T. Schleyer and his wife, Mary Z. Zygala.
The program is set to assist students to strengthen their skills needed for college through a six-week summer immersion experience. The course would focus on English, math, and critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Drexel faculty as well as professors from Cal Tech, The University of California at Berkeley and Swarthmore will instruct the courses.
Drexel President Constantine Papadakis said in a statement the program has many benefits for the student.
“The students can also benefit from a mentorship program in which they will receive guidance from upperclassmen who are fellow Schleyer Scholars or come from a similar background or major,” he said.
“Candidates for the Schleyer Scholars Program will be evaluated by interviews that qualify their high school performance, potential for success in college and personal attributes such as resourcefulness, persistence, work ethic and communication skills.”
One male and one female will be chosen each year. Priority will be given to awarding one scholarship to a student pursuing a degree in engineering.
Dean of engineering Selcuk Guceri said the program will help students substantially.
“It pays for the majority of the expenses,” he said. “It’s wonderful because two students who would not have the means to afford it can attend.”
According to Papadakis, the program would financially support students throughout their years at Drexel.
“It will cover about 25 percent of students’ annual cost, including tuition, fees, room and board, textbooks, computers and related expenses,” he said. “Drexel’s Urban Scholars Program and cooperative education program and financial aid will cover students’ remaining expenses.”
Interested persons should reach the school at (215) 895-2000. |