NSF
Scholarships Help Computer and Math Whizzes Better Afford School
Savannah, GA—September
7, 2004—Many of today's students are juggling academic and financial
responsibilities, or deciding to drop out of school altogether. Now,
computer science, information technology, and mathematics students
can get a break on the full cost of tuition thanks to a $224,098 National
Science Foundation grant awarded to Armstrong Atlantic State University
(AASU).
Juniors, seniors, and graduate students who demonstrate a high grade
point average and financial need are encouraged to apply for the Computer
Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Scholarships (CSEMS). Applications
are currently being accepted for the spring 2005 semester.
"Many students are unable to remain in school due to job and
financial pressures," said Mark Burge, computer science professor
and principal investigator for the grant. "This project will
provide scholarships that will allow them to pursue their studies
full time." The co-principal investigators are Ray Greenlaw and
Chris McCarthy.
Over the next four years, AASU will award 34 two-year scholarships
for $3,125 annually. This makes a big difference in this region, where
the scholarship completely covers one year of AASU's tuition.
Prior to the new grant, the School of Computing awarded about 30 CSEMS
scholarships to computer science and information technology students.
A recent survey of current computer science scholars revealed the
funds had enabled 33% to quit their jobs or work fewer hours, 60%
to maintain or improve their GPA, and 7% to change from part-time
to full-time status.
"Four years ago we were only able to award a total of $6,000
annually," said Burge. "Since that time, we have made student
scholarships a priority and brought in over $600,000 in federal funds."
For more information on AASU's School of Computing scholarships, call
Chris McCarthy at 912.961.3074. To apply online, visit www.computing.armstrong.edu
