FSW's Saturday Scholars: Success-Simplified
Your Weekend Gateway to Quality Education in Florida
Experience the advantage of Florida SouthWestern State College's Saturday Scholars program. This specialized Saturday cohort lets you swiftly complete your college general education requirements, offering a perfect blend of flexibility and quality.
Why Choose FSW's Saturday Scholars?
- Accelerated Achievement: Complete your general education requirements through our optimized Saturday sessions.
- Balanced Life: Perfect for professionals with weekday commitments, striking the ideal balance between career and education.
- Quality Assured: Benefit from our commitment to delivering high-caliber education, powered by our expert and innovative faculty.
- Unwavering Support: Whether it's regular advisor contacts, student success sessions, or the camaraderie of a dedicated cohort, we're with you at every step.
- Financial Boost: Jumpstart your educational journey with a $250 scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Saturday Scholars program?
Complete your general education courses by taking classes on Saturdays from 8:30am-2:30pm with options to complete your Associate in Arts degree in just 5 consecutive semesters.
What are some of the reasons to join this program?
- Small class sizes (classes have no more than 25 students)
- Ability to be a full-time student while only taking 2-3 classes at a time instead of 4-5 classes
- A schedule that provides work/life balance and helps you juggle your many commitments; convenience of taking in-person classes on Saturdays, working around your busy schedule (can work full-time and go to school full-time)
- Guaranteed consistent class schedule Saturdays from 8:30am to 2:30pm with a built-in lunch break
- Frequent contact with your advisor to ensure you stay on track and receive the support and services you need to be successful
- Student success sessions presented on Saturdays throughout the semester on topics like securing financial aid, academic support services, the library, and technology assistance
- A one-time $250 scholarship to help you pay for tuition and books
- Priority registration ensures that you get the courses you need to complete your degree in your preferred format and days/times
- Peer support and a strong sense of community as you progress through the program together
- Expert, innovative faculty
How do I qualify for the Saturday Scholars program?
You must be admitted to FSW and be a first-time in college student. You need to be ready for college level English and math classes and seeking an Associate in Arts degree. You must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
What pathways does the Saturday Scholar program work best for?
Education, Social & Behavioral Sciences, Humanities, Communication & Global Studies.
I am interested in a different pathway than the ones suggested for this program, can I still do it?
Complete the interest form and an advisor will contact you to discuss your interests and see if the program is a good fit for you.
I travel in the summers and plan to be all online during those semesters, can I still be a Saturday Scholar?
This program is designed as a two-year, campus-based program with a preset schedule. Students must be able to commit to in-person classes on Saturdays for 4 consecutive semesters.
I am not in a pathway listed for the Saturday Scholars but the first semester or two would fit my schedule. Can I join for a semester or two?
To create a strong cohort of students who support each other, Saturday Scholars must be able to make a two-year commitment to the program.
What if I change my major or pathway halfway through?
If you change your pathway, you will want to meet with your advisor to discuss your options.
I am not at a college level with one or more subjects (reading, writing, and/or math), but I am interested in the Saturday Scholars program; can I join the program after my developmental classes are completed?
You will want to speak with the Saturday Scholars advisor. There may be an opportunity to sync your course planning to join a future Saturday Scholars cohort.
Is this an accelerated program?
This program is designed to complete the general education courses of the AA in two years with the benefit of a predictable, consistent schedule. However, the classes are taught in mini-terms, and therefore are shorter in duration. Rather than taking and juggling four or five classes for a full semester, you will focus on two classes per mini-term with an optional third full term course.
I am a student on another FSW campus, can I be a Saturday Scholar?
Yes, this program is open to qualifying students from all FSW campuses. The program is offered on the Lee/Edison campus and transportation is up to the student.
What if I don't pass a Saturday class?
You may have the option to repeat the course either online or during the week in a following semester and still remain in the program. Your advisor would discuss your options with you.
Will I receive a $250 scholarship every semester as part of the Saturday Scholars program?
To help you jumpstart your journey, Saturday Scholars receive a one-time $250 scholarship to assist with tuition and books on top of any financial aid you are eligible for.
I'm interested, what do I do next?
Fantastic! Complete the interest form and an advisor will reach out to you with more information and next steps.