Honors students at Florida A&M kicked off Honors Week today.
The Honors Center’s first event encouraged students to join the program. Although it primarily targets freshman and sophomore students, it also allows students to apply for admission the first semester of their freshman year.
Tuesday will mark the Honors Center’s first conference, where FAMU students will present slideshows on topics ranging from diabetes to homologous blood.
Throughout the week, the Honors Center will hold its convocation, a kickball game and a potluck at the recreation center to end the week.
The Honors Center’s mission, according to its brochure, is to provide a series of challenging courses and academic enrichment experiences for undergraduate students who excel.
Cyrina Thomas, a first-year chemical engineering honors student from Aurora, Colo., said the center is a valuable resource for students.
“It’s a great way to enhance studies and a stepping stone for students in the future,” Thomas said.
Academic achievement, development of leadership potential, community service and cultural enrichment are four major areas of concentration at the Honors Center.
Brian Taylor, a first-year mechanical engineering honors student from Miami, is more than impressed with the program.
“We get to tutor in-state and out-of-state conferences, and the best part is graduating with honors,” Taylor said.
High school graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.5 are invited to apply to the Honors Center. Transfer students must have a minimum GPA of 3.2. In order to remain in the program, a student must maintain a 3.0.
When admitted, students have access to small, challenging classes, priority registration and firsthand academic advisement and counseling.
Honors students also have access to the Honors House for studying, social interaction and relaxation. Students will be given degrees with special honors recognition upon graduation.
Sam Brown, coordinator of academic services, said being a part of the honors program gives students a chance to mingle with fellow Rattlers.
“It’s a great opportunity to conduct with like-minded individuals and socialize with others who are the same type of achievers,” Brown said.