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Smith Quest Scholars

Smith Quest Scholars are academically competitive, are people of faith, and have a desire to engage in personal reflection of their own faith while participating in interfaith and vocational discovery initiatives. 

smith quest

Funded by the generous support of the Harold C. Smith Foundation, Ursinus College offers a selected number of Smith Quest Scholarships. Scholars are awarded $7,500/year, on top of their merit award.

These highly motivated students will benefit from the value of an Ursinus liberal arts education and the unique and focused program elements offered by the Harold C. Smith Quest Program. Students admitted in the scholarship cohorts will develop life-long bonds and will create an inviting environment for new Scholars and for other students who become involved in various program activities also supported by the Smith Quest Program. These experiences will lead the Smith Quest Scholars and other involved students through their own personal thoughts about the question “What will I do?,” which is integral to the Ursinus mission and curriculum.

Based on previous life experiences, the sense of inquiry within them, and the focused activities offered over the course of their matriculation, Smith Quest Scholars will emerge as leaders who have honed their abilities to pursue meaningful lives of purpose.

How to Apply

1. For top consideration, students should apply to the college by February 1.

2. Complete the online application by February 3. To apply students will login with the username and password sent to them upon application submission to Ursinus. Please check the email address associated with your application.

3.  On-campus interviews will take place in March.

For additional information, contact Bekah Starr at bstarr@ursinus.edu.

What are the Terms of the Scholarship?

  • $7500 annual scholarship (applied after all other gift aid has been applied to the student’s financial aid package).
  • Required Course: PSJ-200
  • Book discussion groups focusing on marginalized communities.
  • Weekly Vocational Discernment groups
  • Faith in Action Experiences
  • Participation in a faith tradition student group

Faith in Action Experiences

Smith Quest Scholars will be involved in different experiences each year with the goal of holding a leadership role in one organization. Examples of spiritual and service opportunities include:

  • Spiritual Life Leadership Team
  • Hillel Student Group/ Jewish Life on Campus
  • Alternative Break Service Trips
  • Muslim Students Association
  • Intervarsity Fellowship
  • Newman Society
  • Meditation group
  • Soul Food Sunday

All Offices and Services