Class of 2016 MLK Scholars outside of Dr. King's Birth Home

A major influence in my dedication to academic, extracurricular, and socio-cultural success and achievement has been the positive base of experience and support that came in the form of the Martin Luther King Scholars program.

The Martin Luther King Scholars program is open to students of historically underrepresented racial backgrounds. Each scholar receives a minimum of a $25,000 merit based scholarship, with more being available for those who qualify for need-based aid.

As a member of this dynamic, interdisciplinary community, you'll focus on building the skills and perspectives you'll need to live King's legacy -- no matter what your chosen career path. Additionally, scholars commit to civic engagement beyond volunteerism and develop relationships with the community at large. 

Through a collaborative mentoring process, you'll be challenged to connect your academic coursework with a related social justice research project. You'll travel the globe to gather data, and link your research to real-world service right here in Ithaca. And as a senior, you'll share your findings with pride, confidence, and authority at the College's annual Whalen Symposium event. It's an intense and rewarding undergraduate experience you won't find anywhere else.

Over my years in the scholars program, I have travelled to Georgia, Alabama, London England, and Da Nang Vietnam. 

·         maintain a cumulative 3.3 average

·         participate in community service each semester

·         live with the H.O.M.E. program, Ithaca's multicultural living learning community, during your first year

·         travel annually

·         complete a three-year independent research project

·         produce an electronic learning portfolio reflecting on service, travel, and leadership experiences

·         and participate in all required programs, including orientation, seminars, and meetings, and in at least 80 percent of other planned events and activities.