<p>Currently I am faced with a fairly big dilemma. I was accepted as a capstone scholar (with McKissick scholarship) for fall. Originally, I didn’t really pay it much attention because I was expecting to, and did, get into the University of Florida.
However, just this past week I visited both campuses. LOVED USC way more than I though I would. It was beautiful and capstone seemed to be a very beneficial program although I still am unclear on all the benefits.
I’m planning on going to medical school, which plays well for Florida because of the hospitals on campus and the university’s overall prestige (plan on majoring in microbiology/cell science).
Anyway, I’m just looking for some input specifically geared towards the benefits of being a capstone scholar.
Any help is appreciated.</p>
<p>First, Capstone is a great community. There are many pre-med students in the program, and you will find yourself sharing classes with a great deal of them, which can be helpful when it comes to studying.
The requirements of Capstone are as such - students must attend one social event, one Capstone Conversation, one community service event, and also complete a personal challenge. Capstone Conversations range from etiquette dinners to a lecture by football coach Steve Spurrier, to a presentation by the pre-professional office.
The Capstone staff, particularly Dr. Hickey, are so well-connected that they are constantly helping students find internships, mentors, or research opportunities in their field. There are also specific research grants for only Capstone Scholars.
Next year, Capstone is instituting a new Ambassador program, where incoming freshmen will be grouped into 20 or so students and matched with 2 mentors. The groups will be based by major, and will have special educational and social outings together. This can be helpful, especially for pre-med students, to hear the ins and outs of the program here at USC from a current student, as well as get tips that you might not find otherwise. </p>
<p>Finally, on a personal note, I love Capstone. I love the sense of community, I love the dorms (which I will be living in again next year, as an Ambassador), and I’m just so grateful for this wonderful opportunity. I would recommend the program to anyone, because unlike the Honors program (which is strictly academic), Capstone gives you valuable experience through the community service and personal challenge sections.</p>
<p>Thank you for taking the time to respond. Very insightful. Appreciate it :)</p>
<p>No problem! And if you have any other questions about the program/dorm or really anything at USC I’d be more than happy to answer!</p>