The Centennial Scholars Program
From its spirited beginning in 1889, when it became the first New York institution of higher learning to open its doors to women, Barnard College has been an academic beacon--attracting students of initiative and unusual accomplishment. The cornerstone of its reputation is its rich and challenging undergraduate curriculum, honed and enhanced over more than a century to provide intellectual breadth and depth. Supported by superb scholarly resources, it enables students to reach the highest levels of academic and individual achievement. As part of this tradition, the Barnard Centennial Scholars Program, established in 1984, offers selected students the opportunity to pursue courses of independent study early in their college careers. Working closely with mentors of their choice over a period of several semesters, these young women undertake investigations in areas of personal interest that culminate in projects presented to faculty and peers. Stipends of $4000, for travel, books, materials or technical instruction not available within the regular Barnard curriculum are provided to each Scholar.
Eligibility
Centennial Scholars are selected primarily from Barnard applicants by the College's Admissions and Centennial Scholars Committees, or they may be nominated by their high school counselor. Prospective Scholars demonstrate advanced academic achievement and possess the intellectual focus and motivation necessary for creative, independent scholarship. The applicant's high school record, counselors' and teachers' recommendations, standardized test scores, personal statement, and interview are all used in the final selection process.
Though the program is aimed primarily at incoming students, freshmen are also eligible via a self-nomination process announced annually in mid-March by the First-Yr Dean. This process involves submission of a i) mini project proposal, ii) faculty letter of recommendation, iii) writing sample, iv) academic transcript, and if the candidate advances to the final selection round, v) a formal interview.
The Mentors
A key component of the Centennial Scholars Program is the collaboration between the Scholar and the mentor. The mentor offers the young Scholar intellectual and creative support and guidance in her independent work, in the spirit of the classical concept of the mentor as counselor and guide. The program directors assist students in selecting and recruiting their mentors from the Barnard faculty or the community at large. Mentors are responsible for the direct supervision of the Scholar's project from formulation to its completion. In addition to this close relationship with faculty mentors, Scholars have access to the College's other support services, including a specially-designated advisor in the Dean of Studies office and the resources of the Office of Career Development. Periodically, the Faculty Committee reviews the Scholar's academic performance to ensure quality and to maintain the academic vitality of the program.
The Curriculum
Centennial Scholars must pursue a full program of study and satisfy all degree requirements. A maximum of 18 points of academic work performed within the program will be credited toward the 120 grade points required for a Barnard degree. The Scholar's project does not have to be related to her major but will be credited to her degree.
In the first fall semester, the Scholars meet informally for a special orientation, outings to museums and other places of interest, and occasional dinners with other students in the program.
