Last spring, just 61 students applied for the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges award.
This year’s deadline is Friday, and 77 students have applied so far.
Youngstown State University is allotted 150 spots for the award, a number based upon the number of enrolled students.
Carrie Anderson, coordinator of programs and marketing for campus recreation and student programming, said she hopes that more students apply — especially because it’s free to do so.
Several emails and MyYSU personal announcements have been sent to students, encouraging them to apply and reminding them of the award’s deadline.
However, despite notifications, some students haven’t heard about the award.
“I wasn’t sure what it was. Now that I’m aware of it, I would love to get that award,” said junior Brandon Suverison.
Freshman Ashley Perri said she hadn’t heard about it either.
“I would most definitely apply for the Who’s Who award if it doesn’t get lost in my YSU email. I tend to skip over a lot of what they send because they send so much,” Perri said.
Anderson said the award is well marketed, stating that the real problem is students’ being unaware of the nomination process.
“I think many students are afraid to nominate themselves, or they don’t know they can, which isn’t the case,” Anderson said.
Laura Krcelic said she wanted to apply for the award this year, but found out some disappointing news.
“It looks great on a resume, and it shows you’re the cream of the crop. I was really disappointed I missed junior status by one credit hour,” Krcelic said.
In order to qualify for the award, nominees must be of at least junior status with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Graduate students are also eligible for the award.
Despite the prestige of the award, some students who meet the requirements said they are hesitant to apply.
“I have heard about it, but I never apply because I feel that I would never receive it,” said junior Veronica Nolen.
“I thought of applying, but I feel like other people who do everything, like tons of organizational involvement, are more likely to get it than me,” said senior Samantha Streb.
Community service, campus involvement and academic information, among other recognitions, may be submitted with the application.
“I applied to show future employers that I not only went to school, but I also participated in other things. I was involved on campus, but I also excelled academically,” said senior Mandy Alcorn.
Applications can be found in the student programming office and online. YSU staff and faculty members can nominate an outstanding student, but students may also nominate themselves.
However, YSU alumna Ariel Foster said she feels the award was of little use for her after graduating. Tysa Egleton, associate registrar, nominated her.
“I forget to put it on my resume all of the time. Yes, the award is free, but you still have to pay to get your name printed in the book. Then
you have to pay for a copy of that book. However, it’s just like paying dues to an honor society,” Foster said.
A committee of nine — consisting of YSU faculty, staff and graduate students — will review the applications. Those selected can attend the annual YSU Student Awards Banquet that will be held April 26.
Parents and friends can purchase tickets for $17 each, while students receiving the award also get free tickets to the banquet.
Cynthia Anderson, YSU president, and Jack Fahey, vice president for student affairs, along with members of the YSU Board of Trustees and the YSU Student
Government Association, will be in attendance to present awards to those honored.
