By: Abby Hickman ’27 PSE/CHE

This past weekend, I had the privilege of volunteering at the annual Paper Science Super Scholars event, which brings outstanding high school seniors to campus as finalists for some of the most prestigious scholarships in the Paper Science and Engineering program. Eighteen exceptional students from across the eastern United States traveled to NC State to learn more about the university and explore what PSE has to offer as they prepare to begin college in the fall.

The Super Scholars Program is a means to alleviate some of the financial stresses for a group of out of state students, with the goal of attracting top talent to the Paper Science and Engineering program. There are two parts to the application process. First, students complete the initial common application. From there, approximately 20 of the strongest out of state candidates are invited to campus for the finalist weekend. During this visit, they participate in interviews with both a student panel and an adult panel to help determine scholarship recipients.

Friday’s events were designed to give the finalists and their families an authentic look at the program and its community. Students toured campus and our pilot paper plant, attended a PSE 201 lecture, and participated in a handsheet-making lab led by current students. I had the opportunity to help run the lab and lead campus tours, which allowed me to share my experience in the program and answer questions about classes, internships, and student life. The evening concluded with a dinner and a student activity that included a surprise visit to the Free Expression Tunnel where students were allowed to add their own flair to the designs. 

Saturday focused on the interview process. Each finalist participated in two panels, one with current students and one with faculty, alumni, and Pulp and Paper Advisory Board representatives. At the end of the day, one student was awarded a full ride scholarship, and several others received high value scholarships. It was inspiring to watch such accomplished students share their goals and passions. 

This marked my third year volunteering for the event, and it remains one of my favorite ways to give back to a program that has had such a meaningful impact on my college experience. With more than 30 student volunteers involved, the event highlights the strong sense of community within PSE. Being able to represent a program that has shaped my growth and welcome future students into it is both meaningful and rewarding.

Thank you to Global Cellulose Fibers for sponsoring the banquet dinner and to alums Clark Hight, Carson Carmichael, Allen Turner, Kat Santoro, Gianna Wessler, Dr. Med Byrd, and Dr. Martin Hubbe for volunteering their time to assist with the interviews. Their involvement reflects the continued support and engagement of our alumni network.