UVA offers a number of scholars programs for students to be involved in based on their interests, demographics and academic merit. But which ones accept which students, and on what basis? Read on for more information about some of the scholars programs at UVA and how you can be a part of them.
Echols Scholars
Founded in 1960 and boasting approximately 200 students who represent over 40 countries, the Echols Scholars Program draws together a diverse community of students united by their potential for significant intellectual engagement. Students selected for the Echols Scholars Program come from various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, urban and rural geographic locations, and public and private schools. Echols Scholars are academic leaders and intellectual risk-takers. They are “active and aggressive” learners, and evidence in a student’s record that demonstrates independence, initiative, intellectual versatility, and the ability to thrive in a creative and mentally engaging community.
Echols Scholars enjoy flexibility in their academic requirements in order to pursue their individual scholarly interests, and they can enroll in courses during the earliest times available to their class year. Echols Scholars are granted an exemption from the General Education requirements within the College of Arts & Sciences, but still must meet any departmental requirements prior to declaring a major or a minor, since Echols status does not exempt them from these major or minor requirements. Completion of prerequisite courses is also required for admission to programs outside the College of Arts and Sciences.
All students applying to UVA are automatically considered for Echols. The Office of Admission looks for academic excellence, intellectual leadership, and an ability to grapple with complex topics. Every application to the College of Arts & Sciences is given the same comprehensive review and there is no single factor that guarantees a place in the incoming cohort of Echols Scholars. Selection as an Echols Scholar is a holistic process that considers three main attributes: outstanding academic achievement, academic leadership, and felicity of expression.
But what do actual Echols Scholars have to say about the program? According to Jack Forys (Col ’23), “Being in the Echols program has allowed me to tailor my course schedule in order to better pursue my academic interests. I have also sincerely enjoyed living with fellow scholars, people who are now some of my closet friends.”
For more information, please visit the Echols Scholars website.
Rodman Scholars
The Rodman Scholars Program is the honors program for the top 5% of each class in the School of Engineering. Students are selected for their superior academic performance and potential to become the engineering leaders of tomorrow. Rodman Scholars are placed into a special first-year curriculum that allows them to expand and develop their talents by building on and learning from each other.
In addition to the first-year curriculum, the Rodman Scholars Program encourages Rodman Scholars to explore their interests through 1-credit seminars chosen by the scholars themselves. Throughout their four years, Rodman scholars are given access to special research and design opportunities to continue developing their engineering and leadership skills. Rodman Scholars also receive priority registration for classes.
All high school seniors applying to the School of Engineering are automatically considered for the Rodman Program. There is no supplemental application or interview process to become a Rodman as a rising first-year. The evaluation process is holistic and focuses on passion and potential for leadership within the field of engineering as well as academic excellence. Students not selected for the Rodman Program can apply after they matriculate.
According to Zach Boner (Engr ’23), “The Rodman program has given me the opportunity to collaborate with extraordinarily talented peers in a range of settings. Whether in classes on projects or just messing around on a weekend build, my time working with my fellow Rodman scholars has been equal parts enjoyable, productive, and informative.”
For more information, please visit the Rodman Scholars website.