Scholars Program
The Columbia Undergraduate Scholars Program (CUSP) aims to foster the intellectual, social, and cultural growth essential to leadership in our highly specialized yet culturally diverse world. CUSP, a four-year comprehensive program for select undergraduates who are committed to performing at the highest intellectual level, aims to enhance Scholars’ academic experience, leadership skills, and global awareness. In collaboration with CTICE, CUSP offers Scholars tailored opportunities for research and experiential learning that lead to a uniquely challenging and rewarding educational experience.
An underlying theme of the Scholars program is civic engagement; all Scholars are encouraged to use their skills and academic interests on real-world projects pursued with local civic and community organizations. Working with CTICE, Columbia faculty mentors, and leading professionals in the metropolitan area, CUSP provides specialized research assistantships, internships, and opportunities for independent study. Through these research opportunities, Scholars have not only completed valuable civic engagement projects but also become joint authors in academic journals and presented at symposia and conferences, usually receiving academic credit for their work at the same time.
First-year Scholars become involved in the Program through seminars and workshops – the Columbia Journey Seminars – that offer a forum for Scholars to build community, explore and reflect upon their own roles within the University and New York City, and offer training in media and interviewing skills. The CUSP Speaker Series features world leaders from all fields and professions, exposing Scholars across their four years to the pressing issues of the day. Scholar Dinners encourage Scholars to engage in meaningful dialogue with University and government policymakers, University faculty, and alumni. Cultural outings, often with opportunities to interact with directors, actors, and dramaturges, allow Scholars to immerse themselves in the artistic and cultural wealth of New York City.
Within their tight-knit community, Scholars enjoy a unique and comprehensive advising system comprising their individual advising Dean, CUSP-affiliated faculty, members of the CUSP Senior Advisory Board, Graduate Student Mentors, peers, and alumni – all working together to explore academic, professional, and networking opportunities that will help Scholars seamlessly transition from students to alumni.
For more information about the CUSP, please contact Lavinia Lorch, senior assistant dean, at lel52@columbia.edu.