On March 8 and 9, the Office of Special Scholarships invited 108 admitted first-year undergraduate students to Stamps Scholars Weekend, a celebration of these students and their accomplishments.
A portion of this weekend involved interviews as part of the final selection process for the Stamps President’s Scholarship and the Gold Scholarship programs. These scholarships are awarded to the top 1-2% of each admitted class.
“This is a highly competitive scholarship process and the students invited to Stamps Scholars Weekend are truly exceptional,” said Chaffee Viets, director of the Office of Special Scholarships. “Through multiple rounds of review, they’ve showcased not just their academic excellence, but also genuine curiosity and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Reaching this stage in the scholarship selection process is a significant achievement, and it’s an honor to recognize their accomplishments and celebrate their journeys during Stamps Scholars Weekend.”
The Stamps President’s Scholarship Program provides a full ride to cover tuition, fees, housing, a meal plan, books, academic supplies, and a stipend for first-year students to purchase a laptop. In addition to covering immediate education expenses, the program also provides enrichment funds, faculty guide mentorship, annual cohort retreats, access to the nationwide Stamps Scholars Program network, and more resources for personal and professional development.
This year, 50 of the scholars attending Scholars Weekend will receive the Stamps President’s Scholarship. This marks an increase of 10 spots from previous years thanks to the generous philanthropy of E. Roe Stamps IV. The remaining attendees will receive the Gold Scholarship.
The Gold Scholarship award varies by residency, with Georgia residents receiving a tuition, fees, and books scholarship, and non-residents receiving an out of state tuition waiver.
Both programs go above and beyond to support scholars and provide a close-knit community for students to thrive in.
Stamps Scholars Weekend allows students to learn more about Tech and for the scholarships team to determine which program is the best fit for each student.
On Friday, students connected with other scholars, toured campus, met a current Tech student to serve as their host, and attended a celebration banquet.
On Saturday, alumni, faculty, and staff interviewed students for characteristics of scholarship, leadership, progress, and service, which act as the pillars of the two scholarship programs. To conclude the weekend, students had the opportunity to take photos with Buzz and the Ramblin’ Wreck.
“Since 2016, Stamps Scholars Weekend has stood out as a highlight in our selection and recruitment process,” said Christal Dimas, associate director of the Office of Special Scholarships. “By extending invitations to these exceptionally talented individuals, we provide them with the chance to envision themselves as part of the Yellow Jacket family, while giving us a deeper understanding of who they are beyond their applications. This weekend also serves as a way to engage various stakeholders, including parents, faculty members, campus partners, current students and staff, in meaningful interactions with these prospective scholars. It’s an amazing weekend to be a part of!”
Decisions will be announced Friday, March 15.