Haig Scholars Program
The Haig Scholars Program is an academic excellence and leadership program for students majoring in Natural and Applied Sciences. The program recognizes the accomplishments of highly-motivated students based on academic work, the impact of participation in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, meaningful community engagement, and impact as student leaders.
Participation in the Haig Scholars Program will enhance students' Loyola experience through unique opportunities to interact with mentors, professionals and community leaders. Scholars are among the top 10% of natural and applied science majors, are recognized with cords at commencement, and are encouraged to include this distinguished accomplishment on resumes and applications for graduate school and future employment.
The Haig Scholars program aligns with Loyola University's mission, "to inspire students to learn, lead, and serve in a diverse and changing world," by enhancing knowledge about leadership, the impact of scientific and technical knowledge on society in the context of social responsibility and justice, and the opportunity for discernment about their Loyola experience and education.
Student Eligibility Requirements
- Must be majoring in a program supported through Natural and Applied Sciences (NAS);
- Must have completed at least 60 credits applicable to a degree (junior class standing) by time of participation in Haig Scholars seminar during fall semester. In case of transfer students, at least 30 credits must be courses completed at Loyola University. Generally, students will be eligible to apply during spring of their sophomore or junior year;
- Must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.500;
- Must have full-time status, no less than 12 credits per semester.
Admission is competitive. Scholars are selected during the spring semester of their sophomore or junior year on the basis of demonstrated academic achievement, leadership experience and potential, commitment to service, community engagement, and personal essay.
Haig Scholars Seminar
As part of this program, Haig Scholars must complete a one-credit Haig Scholars Seminar course during the fall semester of their junior or senior year. Should a student opt to defer participation in the seminar course until fall of their senior year due to study abroad or a scheduling conflict, they must request approval to do so in view of limited course capacity. The Haig Scholars Seminar will be a community of scholars engaged in collaborative and cross-disciplinary activities involving all programs associated with Natural and Applied Sciences. The seminar will have a strong emphasis on innovation and innovative mindset, leadership, and Twenty-First century skill set, and incorporates guest speakers in leadership roles.
Application Process
Complete the Haig Scholars online application
Applications Due: February 2, 2024 (Third Friday of spring semester)
Essay Prompt: Before you begin your application, consider writing your response to the following essay prompt, then copying and pasting into the online application form:
How do you serve others as a STEM student? Discuss the impact that your involvement in clubs, volunteering/internships, tutoring/mentoring, or research has had on your understanding of leadership in STEM areas. (350 - 400 words)
The next Haig Scholars cohort will be notified of acceptance during spring semester, prior to registration for fall courses so they may register for Haig Scholars Seminar. Accepted students may participate in the seminar course during fall semester of either their junior or senior year.
For more information about the Haig Scholars Program, contact Professor Roughani, Associate Dean for Natural and Applied Sciences, at broughani@loyola.edu.