1. University of Southern Mississippi
Psychology Scholars
Program

2. What is the Psychology Scholars Program
A unique program for select high achieving Psychology Majors
Increase engagement in the Department
Offer academic, social, and intellectual learning opportunities outside of the classroom
Build basic helping skills
Focused on preparing for graduate school related to the discipline of psychology

3. Expected Outcomes
Receive instruction and supervision in basic counseling skills and apply these skills toward supporting undergraduate psychology majors.
Participate in an advanced graduate school and career enhancement seminar series.
Receive mentoring on professional development and post-graduate plans. 
Participate in the department orientation class, presenting information, facilitating small group interactions, and engaging in peer mentoring.
Engage in advanced research with department faculty.
Represent the department in recruitment activities.

4. Benefits to scholars
Gain experience using specific communication, counseling, and group facilitation skills often related to graduate school in applied psychology.
Learn more about applying to and succeeding in graduate school.
Be identified by the department as an outstanding student, an achievement that can be listed on one’s resume/CV and mentioned in job applications
Eligibility to apply for specialized financial support for supplies (e.g., professional development resources) and research conference presentations (e.g., travel, printing) as funds are available.
Receive personalized feedback about available careers within Psychology that fit their skills and interests, as well as learning about the steps that can be followed to achieve success in each

5. Scholar workshop Series
Attend exclusive workshops with department professors focused on excelling as a psychology major and graduate school applicant.
Topics include
Applying, Goal Setting & Developing a Plan for Success
Basic Counseling/Communication Skills
Small Group Facilitation
Successful Mentoring
Selecting graduate programs and determining fit and planning
Writing personal statements
Preparing CVs
Securing letter writers
Interviewing (fall)

6. Group Facilitation in PSY 203
Co-lead small group student success meetings with a graduate student.
Receive supervision and feedback on basic counseling skills
Offer assistance through mentoring of Freshman and Transfer Psychology majors.

7. Requirements Commit to being a scholar through May 2019.
Enroll in 1 credit of PSY 492 in Spring 2018, summer 2018 & Fall 2018.
Ability to commit at least 2-3 hours per week in Fall 2018.
Attend all Spring semester workshop sessions (scheduled for 12:00-12:50 Wednesdays).
Help plan and implement a new major orientation class.
Facilitate a small group/peer mentoring program for new and at risk students.
Represent the Psychology Department at Recruitment Initiatives.
Help select and mentor the 2019 scholars.
Complete all evaluations including self-reflect portfolio.

8. Application Requirements
Must have a USM GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Must be willing to commit 4 semesters (Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring) to the program.
An interest in attending graduate school is preferred.
Involvement in a department research lab is preferred.
Send the following application materials to Dr. Madson by Monday October 2 at 5 PM to be eligible.
Psychology Scholars Application
Brief recommendation from a Psychology Faculty Member
Contact Dr. Michael Madson at with questions