Wright State receives almost $720K in Choose Ohio First scholarship funds for STEM students

Wright State University has been awarded nearly $720,000 in Choose Ohio First scholarship money for STEM disciplines from the State of Ohio for the 2022–23 academic year.

The scholarships are designed to strengthen Ohio’s competitiveness within science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines by supporting students in innovative academic programs. They are aimed at increasing the enrollment, retention and competition of students in STEM fields to strengthen Ohio’s talent pipeline in STEM occupations and related industries.

Wright State provides Choose Ohio First scholarships to selected undergraduate students pursuing a STEM or computer science-related major. The scholarships are competitive, varying in amounts starting at $1,500 to $5,200 annually.

Choose Ohio First scholars work with career and academic advisors from their first year of enrollment through graduation. Students are provided with opportunities to learn valuable career preparation skills such as industry research tools, resume development and interviewing skills while also engaging in professional networking events.

The scholars also participate in experiential learning opportunities with local businesses and organizations that have committed to presenting seminars on the opportunities in their fields and the skills needed to succeed. The experiences supplement students’ academic development by offering diverse avenues to apply their education in various industry settings.

Over the last five years, Wright State has received nearly $6.33 million in Choose Ohio First scholarship funds from the Ohio Department of Higher Education.

The university has participated in the Choose Ohio First program since its inception. The program supports the economic growth of the region by enhancing the production of graduates in the critical areas needed by organizations such as Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the Air Force Research Laboratory.

It focuses on occupations such as engineering, computer science, biology, chemistry, mathematics and statistics, neuroscience, physics, information systems, medical lab science, public health, supply chain management and nursing.