Baltimore, MD - A group of twelve students with a shared interest in public policy, public affairs and government service make up the first class of Public Affairs Scholars at UMBC.

Supported by a $500,000 endowment gift from The Jacob and Hilda Blaustein Foundation, the program provides scholars with insight into the nature and significance of public affairs and public service careers.

"We want students to see first-hand that working in the public service arena can be both challenging and rewarding," says Roy Meyers, associate professor of political science and program coordinator. "Young people need to be encouraged about the possibilities for improving society, whether through government or private action," adds Meyers.

The program begins with an interdisciplinary seminar that explores U.S. and world conditions and various ways public involvement can improve these conditions. During their time at UMBC, students will meet the requirements of their chosen major while engaging in community service, attending a new Public Affairs Speakers Series, completing internships in their field and conducting research with faculty mentors.

"I'm expecting to be prepared for a career in public service by having a more solid background than I would receive simply by taking classes," says Public Affairs Scholar Rachel Lynn.

President Freeman Hrabowski notes "the program complements our existing Humanities Scholars, Linehan Artist Scholars and Meyerhoff Scholars programs which are already attracting growing numbers of truly outstanding students at UMBC."