Kessler Scholarship Program

Kessler Presidential Scholarship Program

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The Kessler Presidential Scholarship Program is a new visionary program that provides academic, financial, and social support to exceptional students who are among the first in their family to attend college, helping them achieve their dreams. Become a part of the first class of intellectually curious, passionate, engaged, and committed first-generation college students who will join a thriving community of honors peers at Queens College.

*For more information, please email your questions or schedule a meeting.* 

Program Director and Advisor:

Chrystle-Claire Greene

MSEd. Higher Education Administration

(Baruch College, CUNY)

Contact information

Email: Kesslerqc@qc.cuny.edu (For general Kessler Scholars questions) 

Office information

Location: Honors Hall Room 16A

Email: KesslerQC@qc.cuny.edu

Eligibility requirements
  • First Generation College Student 
  • First-Time Freshman status (No prior college experience. AP Credit and College NOW is OKAY) 
  • Eligible for Financial Aid through one of the following: TAP, DREAM ACT, PELL, EXCELSIOR 
  • Cannot be enrolled in other Honors Programs (i.e. Macaulay Honors Program, Freshman Honors, SEEK) 
  • Demonstrated commitment to intellectual challenges, leadership, and community service 
  • High School Grade Point Average (GPA) of 85 (3.2) or higher 
  • Academic integrity, civility, and respect for others
What we provide

As soon as you are admitted to the program, we will guide you through enrollment, orientation, and class registration. When you and your family have questions, you’ll find a real person just an email away—you can even meet with the director during weekly office hours on campus or via teleconference. We offer a summer program with virtual and on-campus activities to help students prepare themselves for academic success. This experience will help you form communities to feel at home during your transition to college.

One of the most valuable aspects of the program is the community and the experiences that Kessler Scholars share. Personal connections are formed in the Peer Mentor Program, which pairs new students with supportive program members. Community service opportunities reflect students’ altruistic interests, and professional development events focus on promising futures. Dedicated faculty and staff offer weekly opportunities to be in touch and talk about courses, finances, or anything at all. They guide students as they pursue internships, competitive local and national awards, and graduate study experiences

 

  • Tuition support to supplement financial aid
  • A $500 stipend for books and other expenses every semester
  • Subsidized internship, research, or study abroad opportunities
  • One-on-one advising
  • Peer mentoring
  • A welcoming community where you can find friends and supportive older students
  • Small, discussion-based cohort classes with faculty dedicated to your college success
  • Unique leadership development and service opportunities
  • Priority admission to campus housing (if applicable)
  • Early registration
Program Requirements
The Kessler Presidential Scholarship Program is committed to supporting students who offer time and talent to help others. As a Kessler Scholar, you are expected to bring your spirit of service to our community.

Program requirements

  • Earn 30 credit hours per academic year
  • Maintain a 3.0 GPA
  • In the fall semester of your first year, enroll in the Kessler Scholars first-year seminar; this course will fulfill a general education requirement
  • In the spring semester of your second year, enroll in the Kessler Scholars sophomore seminar; this course will fulfill a general education requirement
  • Attend weekly Kessler Scholars workshops on academic and professional growth
  • Participate in peer support activities