Frequently Asked Questions

•  What is ProjectGPS2?

Project GPS² was developed specifically to increase awareness of the exciting career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, available both now and in the future, and encourage more of our nation’s students to take up a major in a STEM field.

Through fun events involving elementary through college-age students, as well as community and business leaders, we hope to ignite a passion for STEM in the upcoming generations. We have also developed crucial mentoring, tutoring and scholarship programs to ensure that our STEM students receive all the support they need to successfully reach their career goals.

•  What can Project GPS2 do for me?

Project GPS2 offers a number of benefits that are available to every student who enrolls in the program. Among its many benefits, Project GPS2 offers free tutoring for many biology, chemistry, math, physics, earth science, computer science, and microbiology classes. In addition, Project GPS2 students have access to an academic counselor and career guidance specialist who work specifically with Project GPS2 students. Project GPS2 also offers many networking events and field trips, such as Science Saturdays and Monthly Mixers where students can mingle with other STEM students and learn about research and career opportunities.

• So what’s MSP?

MSP stands for Maximizing Student Potential and is a sub-division of Project GPS2. MSP students get the same benefits as Project GPS2 members- academic counselor, Science Saturdays, Free Tutoring, etc.- in addition to more benefits meant exclusively for MSP students. One of the biggest differences between general Project GPS2 members and MSP students is that MSP students get priority registration for all events and are eligible for financial assistance. MSP students get access to financial help for a variety of academic or professional activities that can help them in their future careers. However, in order to gain access to the scholarships, MSP students are required participate in at least a couple events a semester, take a STEM class, and meet the MSP coordinator each semester. What is even better is that you do not need to have a great GPA or meet any financial aid requirements to be a part of MSP (or Project GPS2 for that matter); you just have to love your discipline and be a dedicated student. It really is that simple.

• What kind of scholarships does MSP offer?

MSP offers four different kinds of scholarships.

            1. The Financial Aid Application:

-By far one of the easiest ways of getting money. Simply fill out the form, and turn it in to your MSP faculty advisor along with an updated resume and a current educational plan. You can ask for any amount between $20-$250. This is great for buying books but can be used for any expenses related to education.

            2. Events Calendar Scorecard

-It’s a contest! Check out all the STEM related events taking places on and around campus on our Project GPS2 Events Calendar on ProjectGPS2.com. Whoever goes to the most events and fills out their scorecard wins $150 towards books!

            3. Internship Stipend

-More often then not, internships are unpaid and it can be rough to take time off work. If you find yourself in a situation where you have to choose between work or an internship, this is for you! The internship stipend recognizes dedicated students that have worked at least 50 hours at an unpaid internship and have completed the required application and supervisor evaluation form located on ProjectGPS2.com.

            4. Outside Scholarships

-Check out the “scholarships and internships” link on the Project GPS2 website for a list of scholarships not related to Project GPS2. In addition, you can ask your Mentor for help searching for scholarships that fit your circumstances and qualifications.

•  Where do I turn my Project GPS2-related documents in?

You can turn them in the Office of Special programs in room 225 (2^nd story of the cafeteria building) or in room 1009 (patio area of the art building.

• Who can I talk to if I have questions?

 If you cannot find an answer at ProjectGPS2.com, please feel free to contact Robert Ellis, the Project GPS2 faculty mentor, at REllis@fullcoll.edu. You may also contact the Office of Special Programs with any questions.

• Will I get bombarded with emails from Project GPS2 if I sign up for the mailing list?

Absolutely not, you will receive only a handful of emails a month.

• How much time to I have to dedicate to Project GPS2 or MSP?

You can dedicate as much time or as little time as you want. But keep in mind that the more you participate the more benefits you are likely to receive, especially with MSP. There is only one mandatory meeting each semester for MSP students which is a one-on-one with the Project GPS2 advisor where you tell him about any changes in your academic plans, plans for the future and updates on your resume.

• What majors apply to Project GPS2?

Any major related to science, technology, engineering and math, which includes majors such as economics and architecture. If you are not sure if you major applies please contact a Project GPS2 representative or the Office of Special Programs.

•  Can anyone go to Science Saturdays?

Yes, but MSP and Project GPS2 students receive priority registration. If spots are still available then registration is open to the public a week before the event.

• Where can I register for Science Saturdays?

You may register online at ProjectGPS2.com when you click on the Science Saturdays & Campus Events link on the right side of the page. You may also email your request to ScienceSaturdays@fullcoll.edu.