Page 15 - Bowie State University: Education Innovation Initiative Handbook

C6.4.f Individualized Admission and Financial Aid Application Assistance

In individual meetings with the Project Director, participants weigh such factors as competitiveness of

graduate programs, available financial aid and academic support, and early identification of mentors or

advisors in the chosen field of study. Databases of graduate programs, fellowships, assistantships, and
other financial aid opportunities facilitate this process. The Project Director and mentors also help students

refine their personal statements and apply for pre-graduate enrichment programs that enhance
preparedness for graduate study.

C6.4.g Networking with Mentors, Scholars and Role Models

In addition to research and scholarly activities with faculty mentors, participants have many opportunities
to meet with potential role models and develop resource networks. During the academic year,

BDEinSTEM encourages participants to attend the many guest lectures and other educational activities on
campus and to attend public lectures and seminars at other Greensboro-area campuses. Project-sponsored

receptions provide a venue for participants to interact informally with distinguished campus guests. Over
the summer at weekly Food for Thought sessions, interns, mentors, and staff meet over lunch to discuss

their research and other topics of interest, and to address program business.

C6.5. Supplemental Institutional Resources and Services

C6.5.A. Student Support Services (SSS) at Bowie State University

BDEinSTEM actively recruits from BSU’s SSS Program. SSS students admitted to BDEinSTEM continue

to receive regular SSS services, plus the specialized services offered only by BDEinSTEM. Generally,
SSS focuses on baccalaureate achievement, retention and graduation (e.g., tutoring, advising, financial aid

counseling), while McNair focusses on preparation for post-baccalaureate study.

C6.5.b. Student Success Center and the Writing/Speaking Center

BDEinSTEM Scholars—particularly those not enrolled in SSS—are strongly encouraged to take

advantage of free services offered by BSU’s as well as the FITW RAM and NSF Ecosystem for Students

Success. Over the years, it has referred several graduate students to serve as BDEinSTEM instructors.

These graduate students are specifically trained to assist with the writing process. As graduate students,

they also mentor participants regarding the graduate school process and culture.