Facts for prospective students
What an incoming student should know
The Blugold Fellowship requires a little research for an incoming student to undertake in learning more about this unique opportunity. We have the most important facts for you here, clearly answering some of the most frequent questions for young students.
What are the goals of the Blugold Fellowship?
-To recruit and retain high achieving students to UW-Eau Claire
-To provide an early introduction to student / faculty research collaboration opportunities
What is the time commitment for the Blugold Fellowship?
Blugold Fellows work an average of 5 hours a week on their research projects for a total of 75 hours per semester. The project schedule is determined by the Blugold Fellow and their mentor.
What if I don't have research experience?
You are not expected to, and you will learn! Blugold Fellows participate in a seminar at the start of their freshman year. The seminar introduces the research process, expectations and the many research opportunities.
Is this the only opportunity for collaborative research?
Not at all. While the Blugold Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to 20 incoming freshmen, many UW-Eau Claire students participate in collaborative research during their college careers. In fact, UW-Eau Claire is rated among the top 2 percent nationally for participation in the annual National Conference on Undergraduate Research.
Would I receive academic credit as a Blugold Fellow?
No. However, students are given a $1,200 research stipend for their work. Furthermore, the valuable knowledge and experience Blugold Fellows gain through their research often translates to added success in the classroom.
Do I have to be admitted to UWEC to be considered?
Yes. Students must be admitted to UW-Eau Claire by mid-November to receive their scholarship application in time to meet the December 1 Blugold Fellowship application deadline
Can I receive the scholarship but decline participating?
No. The Blugold Fellowship is intended for 20 incoming freshmen who want to participate in a unique research opportunity early on in their college career. If you do not want to be considered for this award, indicate so on your scholarship application.
What happens if I study abroad during my first two years?
You will still keep your fellowship, but you will not receive the scholarship or work stipend during your study-abroad. You will be able to resume the fellowship for one semester starting your junior year. (In a few cases when the research can be done during a study abroad experience the fellowship could be continued with the approval of the research mentor and Blugold Fellowship director).
Can I delay applying until I am a sophomore?
No. The Blugold Fellowship is only awarded to incoming freshmen, and it is renewable for the sophomore year.