Kessler Acceptance Form

Congratulations and welcome to the Kessler Scholars Program at Syracuse University!

We are excited to support you throughout your college journey. To help us learn more about your interests and goals and to ensure you are aware of the program expectations, please review all details outlined below and complete the Kessler Scholars Acceptance Form by Tuesday, June 18, 2024, to confirm your participation. If you have any questions, please contact Carlota Deseda-Coon, director of the Kessler Scholars Program at Syracuse University.

Kessler Scholar Benefits

The Kessler Scholars Program is a four-year comprehensive student support program that provides students with significant scholarship aid, dedicated support and services, robust opportunities for community-building and leadership development, and a laptop. This includes exclusive access to career-enrichment opportunities, service projects, social events, a peer mentor and dedicated staff. Kessler Scholars also receive financial support to study through one of the University’s off-campus programs (international study abroad location, New York City, Los Angeles or Washington, D.C.). When enrolled full-time at Syracuse University, scholars should expect the following resources from the Kessler Scholars Program.

Financial Support

  • $2,500 scholarship award, renewable each academic year* ($1,250 per semester).
  • A new laptop grant, according to your program of study requirements.

      *Students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) each year at Syracuse University.

      Individualized Student Support

      • Dedicated Kessler Scholars staff members will meet individually with you to ensure your academic, personal and professional success at Syracuse University. You are expected to meet with Kessler Scholars staff a minimum of three times a semester as a first-year scholar.

      Peer Mentorship

      • Kessler Scholars at Syracuse are also paired with a peer mentor who will help guide you throughout your first year. You are expected to meet weekly with your assigned peer mentor.

      Cohort-Based Activities

      • Students who are part of the Kessler Scholars Program at Syracuse University join a robust community of support. As part of the program, scholars attend workshops and meetings to develop skills in areas such as academic planning, leadership, wellness, and professional development.

      National Network of First-Generation Leaders

      • Students who join the Kessler Scholars Program are part of a powerful community of first-generation student leaders, connected across 16 colleges and universities through the national Kessler Scholars Collaborative. As a Kessler Scholar, you not only will have access to comprehensive support at Syracuse University, but you also are connected with a diverse network of Kessler Scholars and alumni nationwide.

      Kessler Scholar Expectations

      • I will maintain full-time enrollment (at least 12 credits, but recommended 15 credits per semester).
      • I will participate in the Kessler Scholars Program cohort-building activities taking place virtually over the summer and in person at the Syracuse University campus starting on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, at 3 p.m.
      • I will participate in ’Cuse First, prior to Welcome Week. This two-day program is designed to help new first-generation students connect, answer questions and prepare for their academic career. The goal of the ’Cuse First Pre-Welcome Program is to connect first-generation students with the Syracuse University campus and available resources. Please register for ’Cuse First by July 24, 2024, at the latest. Explore the Pre-Welcome Programs webpage for more information.
      • I will maintain a 3.0 GPA.
      • I will meet weekly with my assigned peer mentor (first-year only) and I will meet periodically with Kessler staff to receive guidance and support.
      • I will attend events and workshops designed by the Kessler Scholars Program to promote academic success, professional development and personal growth, and to foster a supportive student community.
      • I will participate in events with Judy and Fred Wilpon, the donors who make the Kessler Scholars Program possible, or representatives from their foundation, and I will share with the Wilpons about my experiences as a student at Syracuse University.
      • Each year, I will complete 20 hours of community service or volunteer service and report it to Kessler staff. This includes service to the Kessler Program, such as speaking to prospective students or serving on the Student Advisory Board.
      • Every year, I will attend at least one event hosted by other units within the Intercultural Collective (Disability Cultural Center, LGBTQ+ Resource Center, Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) Student Success).
      • I will routinely check and respond to all emails/communications regarding Kessler correspondences and updates.
      • I will complete any evaluation forms or surveys upon request.
      • If I am unable to attend or complete a Kessler activity, I will email Kessler staff prior to the event or activity for approval and, if approved, make arrangements for how to make up the event or activity.
      • I will inform the program coordinator if there is a change in my enrollment or if I intend to withdraw from any term.
      • I give my permission for Syracuse University and the Kessler Collaborative to use my name and any recorded image of me, such as photographs, audio or video, for the purposes of publicity releases, public service announcements or outreach.