In honor of the 175th anniversary of Ohio University's first African-American graduate, John Newton Templeton, Outlook is profiling participants in one of the programs that bears his name: the Templeton Scholars

What are some highlights of the Templeton Scholars Program?

Opportunities. We have chances every quarter to interact with amazing professors and professionals. We talk one on one with faculty over dinner and get to hear many impressive speakers. It's definitely more than I expected.

How do you think this program will help you in the future?

For roundtable discussions, we get to express our opinions, concerns, and confusion. In any profession or situation, being articulate, thoughtful, and informed is an asset. We also network with speakers, professors, business people, and other students.

Where do you see this program heading?

I see mentor/mentee relationships among the Templeton Scholars and with faculty and staff at Ohio University. It's important to get the most out of our time here.

What message or words of wisdom would you give to future students in the Templeton Scholars Program?

Get off to a good start first quarter. It's so much harder to raise your g.p.a. than it is to keep it high. Involvement and activity come with staying on campus.