One of the largest classes in the history of the College of Charleston’s South Carolina Alliance for Minority Participation (SCAMP) program will begin on July 5, 2011. Seventeen students will participate in the rigorous summer transition program for underrepresented minorities (African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Pacific Islander) who are majoring in science, technology, and mathematics fields.

“I’ve heard so many eligible students say they didn’t know about SCAMP, so this year, we wanted to change that,” says Christine Moore, SCAMP advisor. “We tried to help every possible student apply for the program and as a result, we doubled the number of participants. Each individual student benefits, but we are also increasing minority participation in math and the sciences.”

Funded by the SPECTRA program and the National Science Foundation, SCAMP is free for students and enables them to take up to two courses during the Summer II session (July 5 through August 4) and live together in College residence halls.

“This is an incredible opportunity for students,” says mathematics professor Sofia Agrest. “Adapting to college life is difficult, and with SCAMP, students are able to focus on just two classes while also starting their freshman year with six credits. They’ve also bonded with other high achieving students who have similar goals.”

More than 95% of SCAMP students enter with the goal of pursuing post graduate studies as either as medical or science professionals. SCAMP engages participants in activities that increase their chances of receiving their Bachelor’s degree and prepare them for the next level of education. They are encouraged to engage in undergraduate research and community service, as well as other high impact learning experiences early and often in their college careers

In fall 2011, for the first time, SCAMP students will be able to participate in a First Year Learning Community designed just for them – “Mathematics the Language of Chemistry.”

For more information, contact Christine Moore at moorec@cofc.edu or 843.953.4997 or Sofia Agrest at agrests@cofc.edu or 843.953.5276.