Will the extra required courses prohibit me from taking any of the undergraduate majors?
The program is designed to complement departmental study in any major. Each school has different degree requirements, and the University Fellows Program is committed to working with all students to assure progress toward graduation. However, some degree programs, especially those in the professional schools, may require the students to complete Jan Term or Summer Term courses in order to meet both Fellows and professional degree requirements.
Do University Fellows receive scholarship money?
Yes, University Fellows receive $3,000/year, renewable for four years or eight semesters. Last year, University Fellows were offered over $620,000 in merit-based scholarships from Samford. Fellows also receive funding for the trip to Italy and have exclusive access to the Alabama Power Foundation Research Fellowships. In addition, University Fellows may apply for additional study abroad scholarships during junior and senior year.
Is there an additional fee to participate in University Fellows?
Yes. There is currently a $700 program fee for all incoming University Fellows. This fee is divided into two equal installments of $350, billed at the beginning of the fall term of freshman and sophomore years. Students with demonstrated financial need may contact the Director regarding a fee waiver.
Do University Fellows live in their own residential community?
No. Although such communities have their advantages, University Fellows are encouraged to see themselves as a special part of the university community, not something distinct from it.
Will I get more individualized attention in University Fellows?
Yes. Courses in the general university core range between 18-22 students. University Fellows courses will have between 12-15 students. In addition, since the first-year University Fellows courses are structured as learning communities, the student-faculty ratio for University Fellows courses is approximately 7:1.
Who will be my professors?
Program professors will be selected from the very best faculty on campus. Not only will they be published scholars and award-winning instructors, they will also be known for their innovative classroom teaching and dedication to rigorous undergraduate education.
What is a learning community?
All University Fellows participate in learning communities. These communities take linked courses and build intellectual and personal relationships that cross the disciplines. In the first semester, students enrolled in one section of Western Intellectual Tradition will also be enrolled in the same section of Writing and Rhetoric. In addition to building relationships with members of their learning communities, students will also build mentoring relationships with their learning community professors. In the spring, students will be placed in new communities, take linked courses in the Western Intellectual Tradition and Biblical Perspectives, and build relationships with two new professors.
How do the Calling and Leadership courses fit in with the learning community model?
While University Fellows take two of their courses in smaller learning communities, the Calling and Leadership course gives students the opportunity to come together as one community. In addition to discussing virtues and leadership theory, students will be asked to reflect on their own personal calling and to develop a sense of responsible citizenship informed by their faith.
When do University Fellows travel to Italy?
At the conclusion of the third semester, University Fellows take a Jan term trip to Rome and Florence. The trip lasts approximately 2 weeks.
What costs do I incur in Italy?
Samford will cover airfare from a departure city (Birmingham or Atlanta), airport to hotel transfer, hotel accommodations, and guided tours and lectures. Students will be required to cover their personal expenses, including museum fees, some ground transportation costs, food, entertainment and free-time travel.
In addition to the Italy experience, how does the University Fellows Program support international study?
University Fellows receive priority consideration for all of the university's overseas programs. While students are not guaranteed a place in those programs every semester, each program will set aside a reserved number of spots for University Fellows. In addition, University Fellows are eligible to apply for Daniel Foundation International Study Scholarships.
How does the University Fellows Program support undergraduate research?
University Fellows may apply for Alabama Power Foundation Research Fellowships. These fellowships may be used to support research here at Samford or at an institution that provides a unique opportunity to our University Fellows.