This project is addressing three significant threats to the academic success of engineering students - financial difficulties, math deficiencies, and poor study habits. Targeting rural and inner-city students, the 24 electrical and civil engineering students are participating in a living-learning community during their freshman year. This is providing the students with a sense of community and instilling a culture of discipline necessary for their success in engineering. They are taking common classes including a special section of Foundations of Engineering. Student professional chapters, with faculty assistance, are providing peer mentors for the students.
Each of the freshman students are receiving scholarships which are renewable for up to four years based on their academic performance. Post freshman year scholarships are being provided to those students who, having started with pre-calculus courses, are now eligible to begin the calculus sequence. The funds are enabling them to enroll in the first or second semester calculus course the summer prior to their sophomore year, ensuring that they can begin their sophomore year in the appropriate calculus course.
