Awards

The Exploratory Excellence Award honors current or former General Studies/Exploratory Studies students who have truly embodied the spirit of academic exploration during their undergraduate journey. This award celebrates students who have: 

• Curiosity and Open-mindedness: Actively seeking out and embracing a variety of academic disciplines, stepping outside their comfort zones, and demonstrating a deep curiosity to explore new ideas, subjects, and opportunities. 

• Self Reflection and Purpose: Reflecting regularly on their experiences, seeking to align their academic choices with their interest, skills, and values, and approaching long-term goals with a clear intent of finding purpose and making meaning out of their exploration process. 

• Initiative and Self-Motivation: Taking a proactive approach to seeking opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, actively engaging with campus and/or community resources, guidance and experience to deepen their academic exploration. 

These qualities reflect a commitment to personal growth and a determination to explore new academic possibilities with enthusiasm and dedication.  

Each awardee should also be able to describe the ways in which their experience in DGS successfully supported their achievements.  

Awardees must be in good standing. Resume optional.  

The Excellence in Leadership Award recognizes current or former DGS Peer Advisors or Ambassador who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in the Exploratory Studies program through their dedication, reliability, and commitment to helping others. This award honors students who show evidence of: 

• Reliability and Accountability: Consistently following through on their responsibilities, from attending events to providing other forms of support, and ensuring their actions align with their commitments. 

• Leads by Example: Setting a positive example for others to follow, balancing academic success with leadership duties while modeling strong time management and work ethic. 

• Passion for Helping Others: Possessing a genuine desire to share the value of the exploring opportunity with prospective, admitted, and current students, contributing to the success of the program and fostering a supportive community. 

These students inspire their peers to embrace their academic journey with confidence and purpose, making a lasting impact on the success of the unit overall. 

Awardees must be in good standing. Resume required.  

The Outstanding Scholar Award recognizes current or former General Studies/Exploratory Studies who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, and high levels of engagement in their educational journey. This award honors students who exemplify: 

• Academic Excellence: Achieving a high level of academic success, consistently earning strong grades across a range of disciplines, and excelling in coursework that reflects a broad intellectual foundation. 

• Intellectual Curiosity: Possessing a deep passion for learning and academic exploration, pursuing diverse academic experiences, and endeavoring to make meaningful contributions to society by applying what they’ve learned in real-world contexts. 

• High Levels of Engagement: Actively participating in both curricular and co-curricular experiences, taking full advantage of opportunities to engage with faculty, advisors, and peers, and seeking out meaningful ways to contribute to the academic and social communities at the university. 

This award celebrates students who not only excel academically but also enhance the university community through their involvements and contributions.  

Each awardee should also be able to describe the ways in which their experience in DGS successfully supported their achievements.  

Awardees must have a 3.5 gpa or higher. Resume required.  

The Rising Star Award recognizes exceptional DGS/Exploratory Studies students who, early in their academic journey, show great promise and drive. The award honors students who demonstrate: 

• Commitment to Learning: Eagerness to explore new fields, improve academically, and master challenging concepts. 

• Growth and Self-Awareness: Ability to overcome challenges and proactively seek guidance and support for personal development. 

• Community Engagement: Active and intentional involvement with DGS resources and opportunities, as well as broader campus and community activities. 

• Future Potential: A developing sense of direction for their academic journey and demonstrated ambition toward their future goals. 

This award celebrates students who exhibit the drive, resilience, and engagement necessary to excel and make meaningful contributions to their academic and campus communities. 

Awardees must be in good standing and nominated by a DGS academic advisor.