Beatrice L. Bridglall
Edmund W. Gordon

This monograph examines the structural components and theoretical foundations of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program (MSP) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County; it studies the relationship between specific program components and high academic achievement in talented minority college students. The MSP, which recruits, supports, and provides scholarships for minority college students majoring in mathematics, engineering, and the sciences, is designed to increase the number of underrepresented minorities who pursue research in these fields of study. The monograph evaluates the effectiveness of the program by describing several program components and principles, including recruitment strategies, peer study groups, high academic expectations and motivation, advisement and monitoring, and academic and social integration. The monograph concludes with a series of policy and research recommendations.

Reference:

Nurturing Talent in Underrepresented Students: A Study of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Beatrice L. Bridglall
Edmund W. Gordon
 

Conclusions

1. The Meyerhoff Scholars Program achieves its goals through an array of integrated program components including merit financial support; mandatory Summer Bridge Program; peer study groups; and family involvement.
2. The Meyerhoff Scholars Program is open to all high-achieving high school seniors who have an interest in pursuing doctoral study in the sciences and related fields. The MSP currently has an enrollment of 214. Average SAT scores for the 2003 cohort of 65 scholars were 1,310.
3. Comprehensive financial support is contingent upon students maintaining a B average in a science, engineering, or math major.
4. Advising and Monitoring: The program employs full-time academic advisors and other staff members who are required to monitor and advise students on a regular basis.
5. Freshman students in the Scholars Program are taught by full-time, tenure faculty who are committed and involved after extensive discussions concerning grades, persistence, and retention of all students.
6. The Meyerhoff Scholars Program is supported at all levels of the university, and championed by the president of the University. Over the years, the program has generated a substantial amount of public recognition.