Samantha Levin
Whether you’re just starting your college journey or already on your path through your college career, the Honors Program is something important to consider.
Four different CCBC campuses (Catonsville, Essex, Owings Mills, and Dundalk) offer the program to students that meet the requirements. Submit an application with a 500 word essay and a writing sample; recommendations from previous or current teachers/professors are also key.
Dr. Rae Rosenthal is the director of the Honors Program and one of the founders of the 30 year old program. Dr. Rosenthal developed this program because she, “was interested in developing an enhanced curriculum for motivated students and developing a community of exceptionally motivated students.”
Along with the obvious academic perk of being in an Honors Program, there are many more benefits included. As long as your GPA stays above a 3.5, the student is guaranteed a $500 scholarship. On top of that, guaranteed admission to one of the many schools in Maryland, a faculty mentor while still attending CCBC, and on the Essex Campus, in the Administration building, access to The Honors Program Center and study space dedicated to the program.
Aside from all the benefits listed, Dr. Rosenthal reveals the most rewarding and challenging aspects are being part of a community of engaged learners and smaller classes.
The most challenging aspect would be the enhanced curriculum based on critical thinking and independent research. Although Honors Students may have a more rigorous course load, Dr. Rosenthal still encourages students to apply. Her advice: “Try it! You have nothing to lose and a lot to gain.”
After being out of school for five years, I decided to reenroll at the Essex Campus. I was welcomed with open arms and fit right into the classes. After hearing about the Honors Program and being recommended by one of my professors, I decided to put an application in.
I figured if I didn’t get in that no harm was done and I could always try again. One interview and an essay later, I’m in. All of my hard work is paying off and it’s a very proud feeling getting the acceptance email.
I gave myself the chance to succeed and I did just that. Give yourself the chance, and you just might surprise yourself.
To learn more about the Honors Program or obtain an application, head over to the CCBC website or find the Honors Center on your campus. Keep an eye out for Honors Program events on campus and try to attend as many as you can.
Very interesting. I’ve always thought about honors programs before, yet never actually looked into them. This definitely helps sway my decision in the right direction! Great writing as well!
Wow, I had no idea about the $500 scholarship just for being in the honors program! This was a very useful article to get an idea about the society!