Computer Science Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ECRS)
Appalachian State University will make its initial awards for the fall 2015 freshman class to two
academically talented students who intend to declare a major in the Department of Computer Science.
The scholarship is an exceptional opportunity aimed at students interested in pursuing degrees
in computer science and expresses an interest in development of innovative, and/or entrepreneurial
ideas. Students who are residents from Western North Carolina, and or those who have demonstrated
desire and interest to stay and make contributions to the Boone community are especially encouraged
to apply.
The program provides mentoring opportunities to academically talented undergraduate and
graduate students in CS.
Highlights: Weekly seminars, Study groups for core classes, Mentoring and tutoring corner,
Leadership workshop series, Peer-mentoring, Resume writing and internship/job search workshop,
internship opportunity at ECRS, and
Community building
Accepted in-coming recipients will receive a $4,000 scholarship in their freshman year. Scholars
will also be provided with $500 per year through their faculty mentor to support research projects.
ECRS Scholars will work closely together in academics, research, and collectively participate in
STEM seminars as a part of the interdisciplinary cohort of STEM scholars. Recipients will have many
opportunities to collaborate and share research ideas with each other. The groups and recipients
will work closely with faculty members and report on their research during the STEM seminars.
Scholars will participate in internships and part-time or full-time employment provided by ECRS
and other companies.
Applications for open scholarship positions are accepted at any time. Two new students
will be selected to begin every Fall Semester. Entering freshmen will be invited to campus for
an interview.
Requirements:
The scholarship is open to incoming freshman students. Applicants will be evaluated on academic
merit, including performance in high school, involved in innovative projects, and class rigor
with a focus on a student’s aptitude in Mathematics and creative problem solving. Preference
will be given to applicants who are residents of Western North Carolina. Other preference factors,
which will be considered in the application process include; those who currently serve in the
United States National Guard or Reserve, honorable discharged status with a military branch of
any member state of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, foreign nationals with U.S. asylum
or refugee status who express intentions of seeking U.S. citizenship, academic competitions,
experience in research through internships or other opportunities, strong demonstration of
entrepreneurial activities, and a strong interest in living and serving the Western region
of the state including the Boone community after graduation.
Selected recipients must maintain a 15-hour average course load per semester, demonstrate
academic progress in recommended course work and maintain a minimum 3.0 overall GPA.
In addition to these requirements, recipients will participate in STEM seminar courses and
actively participate in all program activities.
To apply send your application package containing the following items to the program director:
