<p> Hi, I was accepted to UMD College Park in January and in my letter it told me I was selected for College Park Scholars. I didn't even notice that it said that until a day or two later when I reread it, I just thought it was part of the letter, something the sent everyone.
I read the scholars website but I don't quite get it. ** Is it like a double major, or just one or two extra classes? ** Also, it says I have to fill out an "Interest inventory" by this Friday but I don't know what I want to do (or if I'll go to UMD). ** If I fill the inventory out, is it binding or does it just mean I have the option to join scholars, if I go to UMD this fall? **
Like I said before, I'm shocked because I've had a rough past 3/4 years and its reflected in my grades. I want to make sure that I'll be able to handle it and that it wont add extra pressure on top of the already challenging college academics.
Thanks!</p>
<p>“If I fill the inventory out, is it binding or does it just mean I have the option to join scholars, if I go to UMD this fall?”</p>
<p>No, it is not binding with respect to enrollment. It just secures your preference for scholars program should you decide to enroll.</p>
<p>“Is it like a double major, or just one or two extra classes?”</p>
<p>No, not like a double major. “A double major requires students to complete all requirements of the two majors (with only 18 credits applied to both) and complete a total of 120 credits.”</p>
<p>As part of Scholars, you only take one extra one-credit class per semester for the first four semesters (2 years) - the first 2 semesters are colloquium (discussion sessions) and the second 2 semesters are practicum (research or internship). There is a little work associated with those classes in that you have a writing assignment here and there, but nothing major. Some scholars programs have more work associated with them than others, but still nothing to sweat. </p>
<p>The other two classes that you have options to choose from are regular, 3-credit classes. They can be done at any point during those 4 semesters, and you have many classes to choose from that go along with your program’s “theme.” If you are smart, you will try to select those classes that also fulfill gen ed requirements (ie humanities, or history & social sciences, natural sciences, etc).</p>
<p>In addition, you take part in a service-based activity once a semester and also go on field trips of your choice. Options they offer can range from canoe trips to explore the environment to an inside access visit to a company or government agency.</p>