Members of the Ascent team

Mission

The Lamar University Program provides scholarships to community college students who transfer to Lamar University and upper level MATH and/or CS majors to complete a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or computer science.  Selected students are awarded scholarships up to $5,000 per semester (up to $10,000 annually) for up to four semesters at Lamar University.   During the first summer, the students will take a class, engage in research project with mathematics and computer science faculty, and participate in a orientation to the Lamar University campus and community.  While at Lamar ASCENT scholars will meet regularly – both individually and as part of the cohort – with faculty mentors.  In addition to faculty mentoring, students will be supported by peer mentoring, career education, and additional summer research opportunities.

Apply now

  • Application due dates:
    1. November 15 (for Spring semester).  Students should verify their eligibility by December 2.
    2. March 31 (for Fall/Summer semesters).  Students should verify their eligibility for financial aid by April 5.
  • A complete ASCENT application consists of the all of the following material.  Incomplete applications will not be reviewed until all of the application materials have been received.
  • A Lamar University Transfer Application for Admission including a recommendation letter.
  • The completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
  • This ASCENT Program application including personal information, academic history, one academic reference, and a completed essay.

Privileges

  • Up to $5000 per long semester for up to four long semesters
  • Summer Dorm Support and Stipend
  • Lead mentoring by faculty member in your discipline
  • Peer and external mentoring
  • Receive counseling on job search, resume preparation and interviewing techniques from the LU Career Center
  • Learn about graduate study in your discipline
  • Opportunities to participate in professional conferences and Careers Forums
  • ASCENT Learning Community
  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Free Support

Responsibilities

  • Complete degree within four long semesters
  • Maintain at least 3.0 GPA in your major courses
  • Maintain at least 3.0 overall GPA
  • Participate in Summer Bridge and Enrichment Program in Year 1
  • Participate in Orientation and other introductory sessions
  • Regularly meet with ASCENT mentor(s)
  • Participate in Summer Undergraduate Research Project (URP) in Year 2
  • Participate in Learning Community activities
  • Complete surveys as requested that will help assess the ASCENT program
  • Notify your faculty mentor if you are considering changing major
  • Participate in departmental and professional activities - Pi Mu Epsilon, Math Club, ACM, etc.
  • Complete GRE during senior year
  • Be a good representative of the ASCENT project