The Center for Engaged Learning (CEL) invites applications from current Elon University first-year students for a three-year (Summer 2023 – Spring 2026) research collaboration on Mentoring Meaningful Learning Experiences. Accepted CEL Student Scholars will collaborate with three Elon University faculty – Dr. Sabrina Thurman, Dr. Takudzwa “Titch” Madzima, and Dr. Jessie L. Moore – and Dr. Ashley Finley, Vice President of Research and Senior Advisor to the President for the American Association of Colleges and Universities, to lead international, multi-institutional research on this engaged learning topic.

Learn more about the 2023-2026 research focus.

Eligibility

The CEL Student Scholar program is open to current Elon University first-year students (during the 2022-2023 academic year) from any major. Applicants should have an interest in engaged learning in higher education (broadly) and in the 2023-2026 research topic  –  Mentoring Meaningful Learning Experiences.

First-year students apply in spring (Spring 2023) to begin the program in the summer between their first and second years (Summer 2023).

Application Guidelines

To apply, submit the following materials by March 24, 2023:

• A letter of application, and
• A supporting letter of recommendation from an Elon University faculty or staff member.

Letter of Application

Your letter of application should:

• Describe your interest in the research topic  –  Mentoring Meaningful Learning Experiences – and in collaborating with faculty to lead international research about engaged learning;
• Briefly introduce your major (and any minors), as well as other campus, community, or workplace activities that shape who you are; and
• Reflect on what you would hope to gain from this three-year research collaboration.

Submit an electronic copy of your letter of application to CEL Director, Dr. Jessie L. Moore (jmoore28@elon.edu), by March 24, 2023.

Supporting Letter of Recommendation

Your supporting letter of recommendation should come from an Elon University faculty or staff member who can speak to:

• Your preparation for undertaking this mentored research opportunity; and
• Contributions you might make to the program, through both your collaboration with CEL’s research seminar participants and your interactions with other CEL Student Scholars.

The Elon University faculty or staff member writing your supporting letter of recommendation should submit an electronic copy of the letter to CEL Director, Dr. Jessie L. Moore (jmoore28@elon.edu), by March 24, 2023.