Throughout the next two weekends, top high school students and their families will attend the Alumni Distinguished Scholarship competition – an annual Michigan State University tradition celebrating its 60th year.
The scholarships, awarded to high-achieving high school seniors based on an intensive general knowledge exam, high school program and achievement, other standardized test scores and interviews with the finalists, are among the most prestigious academic scholarships offered by MSU.
“Each year, the ADS competition brings the best and brightest applicants to Michigan State to engage with one of the most prestigious universities in the world,” said Jim Cotter, MSU director of admissions. “The ADS competition may indeed be one of the most established and copied scholarship formats in the United States. The two-day event is a blend of both recruitment and academic experiences. Perhaps most importantly, students who attend ADS are provided with an opportunity to explore the intellectual experience at MSU while meeting others of equally enriched talents from across the country. It's a time of competition, excitement and connection.”
The ADS was awarded to 10 students initially, but that grew to 15 in 2002. The scholarships cover tuition and room and board, and a $1,000 stipend per year, for a total of eight semesters.
Approximately 100 other scholarships are awarded to semifinalists and finalists from the competition, ranging from $1,500 per year to full tuition.
“The Alumni Distinguished Scholars represent a distinguished group of Michigan State students and graduates,” said Cynthia Jackson-Elmoore, dean of the Honors College. “We are thrilled to welcome the 60th group of exceptional potential students to our beautiful campus to become part of this long-standing tradition.”
The ADS competition is usually held in late January or early February throughout two weekends each year in the Kellogg Center. Students and their families are also encouraged to explore MSU’s programs and majors through a variety of information sessions held on campus throughout the weekends.