What is the Biology Scholars Program?


Organized through the Office of Undergraduate Biology at Cornell University, the Biology Scholars Program (BSP) is an initiative designed to support academic excellence for students majoring in Biological Sciences who come from economic, gender, geographic, ethnic, or cultural groups historically underrepresented in the field of biology. Our Biology Scholars are interested in pursuing advanced degrees in science and medicine.

Student Commitment
Students accepted into the program sign a contract guaranteeing their full commitment to the program and its philosophy. Students are expected to attend all official meetings and study groups in addition to as many special events as possible. Students also commit themselves to being prepared for and actively participating in meetings and events. Teamwork is a key component to the student commitment—members must be willing to work cooperatively toward the goal of enhancing learning for all group members. Also, as this is a scholars program, it is integral that students stay focused on academics and achieve commendable grades to remain in good standing with the program.

Student Evaluations
At the midway and end-point of each semester, members complete an evaluation of the program. This gives them an opportunity to write down what they did, and in some cases more importantly, what they did not find beneficial. Even more significantly, it allows for the members to make suggestions for anything from improvements to the structure and flow of study groups to putting together new ideas for events in the future. Of course, student feedback is welcome at any time, and all of our staff and study group leaders will strongly contemplate any suggestions given at any time.

Interested in BSP?
Successful applicants show an exceptional motivation for studying the life and physical sciences, and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
First-year students may apply online during the summer. Applications for 2009/20010 are due on Monday, August 31, 2009 by 4:30 pm.

 
 
Office of Undergraduate Biology   •   216 Stimson Hall   •   Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14850   •   607.255.5233