Newswise — All incoming freshmen at Indiana State University who earn at least a 3.0 grade point average in high school will receive a unique award starting in Fall 2006 " a business-grade laptop computer.
"We wanted to create a recognition program that augments our merit scholarships for top students by providing something of significant value to an expanded group of high-achieving students. We feel students who have earned a 3.0 grade point average or above deserve to be rewarded for their efforts," said Lloyd W. Benjamin III, president of Indiana State University.
The decision to offer laptops rather than a tuition discount is connected to the university's laptop initiative and emphasis on the role technology plays in higher education, he added.
"In order to prepare our students for success in today's global economy where communication is critical, they must be technologically literate. We have made access to technology a priority for our students with the development of campus-wide wireless networking, high-performance computer capability, and special-purpose computer laboratories. Technology is transforming the way our faculty teach and the experience our students have. The development of the Laptop Award was a natural extension of this priority," said Benjamin.
Last month, Indiana State officials announced plans to become the first public university in the state to require all undergraduate students to have laptop computers beginning with incoming freshmen in fall 2007.
"This is an investment in student success. We want to recognize these students for their achievements and provide a tool that will help them continue that success at Indiana State University," said Rebecca Libler, associate vice president of enrollment services.
To qualify for the ISU Laptop Award, entering freshmen must meet the minimum grade point requirement (based upon a 4.0 scale), have earned an Indiana Core 40 diploma or its equivalent and be admitted to Indiana State University by March 1, 2006. To be eligible, incoming freshmen must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 hours at ISU. Out-of-state students are also eligible for the award.
For more information about ISU scholarships, visit www.indstate.edu and click on the scholarships button or call the ISU Office of Admissions at 1-800-GO-TO-ISU (1-800-468-6478).
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