Campus News

Yoder awarded competitive transfer scholarship to Bucknell University

Alex Yoder, a resident of Swanton, recently earned his associate of arts degree with a concentration in mathematics and science last month at Garrett College’s 2022 commencement.  Just prior to graduation, Yoder learned that he received a prestigious transfer scholarship.

As a result of his dedicated academic endeavours, Yoder was awarded with the extremely competitive two-year transfer scholarship valued at more than $100,000 to attend Bucknell University, a private, prominent institution in Lewisburg, Pa., this coming fall. 

As part of the transfer scholarship requirements, Yoder participated in the rigorous Bucknell Community College Scholars Program in the summer of 2021.  Yoder left an outstanding impression on the faculty and staff at the university and was responsive to feedback from professors, all while maintaining an admirable pursuit of academic success. 

“The Summer Scholars Program at Bucknell provided a unique opportunity to experience university life before transferring,” remarked Yoder.  “This experience helped prepare me for future studies.”

Thanks to the generous transfer scholarship, Yoder plans to continue his studies in civil engineering at Bucknell University this fall in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree. “I am very excited about this opportunity,” pronounced Yoder.

“It has been a joy to have had the Yoder brothers, Alex and Nathan, in my calculus classes this year.  Best wishes to Alex, who I’m sure will make us all proud by excelling in his studies at Bucknell,” exclaimed Jeff Reitz, professor of mathematics at Garrett College.

As a lifelong Garrett County resident, Yoder chose to attend Garrett College beginning in September 2020 due to its proximity and affordability, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Even though the last several semesters have been different, the opportunity to learn has still been present,” noted Yoder.  “Attending Garrett College has given me an advantage in that it allowed me to continue my education during the pandemic.”  

In addition to his academic studies, was an active member of the college’s CRU student organization, which met once per week for a hearty meal, Bible study, and games.

“With so many virtual classes it has been difficult to get to know other people, especially since I am not living on campus. CRU has provided a way to interact meaningfully with other students outside of classes.” Yoder stated.

When not involved in college activities, he enjoys the outdoors (hiking, golfing, snowboarding), playing guitar, reading, and home renovation projects.  Yoder was also employed as a peer tutor in the College’s tutoring center.

The primary purpose of the Bucknell Community College Scholars program is to provide access to a higher (private) education to students that, under normal circumstances, may never be able to achieve. More than just a transfer scholarship, this program is designed for high-achieving, low- to moderate income community college students who aim to earn their associate degree and wish to continue their pursuit of higher education. Garrett College is one of only six community college partners in the Bucknell Community College Scholars Program.

Ashley Ruby, GC’s director of advising and academic success, coordinates the Bucknell Program at Garrett College. “This program continues to amaze me as young scholars, like Alex, are afforded incredible opportunities to study at such an esteemed university, engage in undergraduate research, and amass valuable internship and student employment opportunities. I am humbled to play a small part in this program,” stated Ruby.

The students that apply for and are selected to participate in this opportunity are among Garrett College’s top five-percent.  “This program has produced some of Garrett’s most notable alumni – international students, a state senate candidate, an ivy league graduate student, engineers, a dentist, a veterinarian, environmental advocates, business gurus, sustainability activists, and many others,” commented Ruby. “I look forward to celebrating Alex’s many achievements, both today and into the foreseeable future.”

Recruitment efforts for the Bucknell Community College Scholars Program 2023 cohort are currently underway. Program eligibility requirements stipulate that candidates must achieve a 3.5 cumulative GPA in the first semester and beyond (mid-term grades can be a good indicator of this), have a low to moderate family income, complete at least 12 college level credits by the end of fall semester, be primarily enrolled in college level coursework, and declare an associate of arts or associate of science degree program of study.
Ruby will hold informational sessions regarding the Bucknell Community College Scholars Program at the Garrett College McHenry campus in October and November. Interested students will have the opportunity to visit the Bucknell University campus in February 2023. After meeting the academic and financial criteria, potential scholars must apply and attend the summer program immediately prior to community college graduation. Students then return to the community college to complete the associate degree, and are eligible to apply for the Two-Year Transfer Scholarship to Bucknell University.

For more information about the Bucknell Community College Scholars Program in addition to other transfer opportunities available at Garrett College, contact Ruby at Garrett College at 301-387-3733 or ashley.ruby@garrettcollege.edu.