Find Your Gateway

Application

Margie Bivans

“I believe the Global Honors Scholars Program aided in my acceptance to a summer internship at the J. Craig Venter Institute in Maryland, where I completed proteomics research that culminated in an oral presentation. This experience encouraged me to follow a path in research and to think critically, which is one of the goals of completing an Honors thesis. The Global Honors Scholars Program encourages me to think in an interdisciplinary manner.”

Margaret Bivans ’10

Leadership Gateways

The Global Honors Scholars Gateway

  1. Why the Global Honors Scholars Program?  You want to challenge yourself academically and intellectually while at Mary Baldwin. You have the skill and drive to learn and the discipline to study hard. Scholastic excellence is your top priority.

  2. Who may apply? The Global Honors Scholars Program is open to all students whose high school GPA and standardized test scores indicate strong academic ability. Generally, an SAT of 1100 or better is expected (full SAT 1700 or ACT 24).

  3. Will I take classes as part of the honors program? In your first year you are assigned to an honors faculty advisor who will assist you in selecting courses.  You also will take:
    • MBC 102: Orientation to College and to the Honors Program.  This class includes participation with the American Shakespeare Center and the Blackfriars Playhouse (1 credit).
    • Honors colloquia may be open to freshmen, but in general are taken in the sophomore year and beyond.

  4. What extra-curricular activities will I be participating in? In addition to an annual tea and a luncheon for honors scholars, you have opportunities for international travel, alternative spring break programs, and independent research.  You may qualify for stipends to support your participation. Symposia, lectures, and field trips are offered each year.

  5. Where will I live?  Honors scholars reside in Spencer Residence Hall. Commuting students are eligible for the program.

  6. Meet the staff. Dr. Martha Walker is head of the honors program and works with a team of faculty members who advise and teach honors students.

  7. Beyond the First Year.  If you achieve the required 3.25 GPA in your first year, you may continue with the honors program and graduate from Mary Baldwin with honors. The program includes nine credits in honors courses, a lab science, and two semester of a foreign language in addition to other college requirements.  You will write an honors thesis in your senior year. If you do not elect the honors program in your first year, you may be invited to apply as a sophomore.

  8. How do I apply? Submit a suplemental application (PDF) that include essays and an interview. For further information contact Dr. Martha Walker at 540-887-7068 or mwalker@mbc.edu.