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First Year Student Awards

The purpose of these awards is to recognize the distinguished achievements of first year students.

Any MIT student, faculty, or staff member may nominate a first year student for these Awards. Please review the criteria & eligibility section below for more information. Nominations are now closed. Please check back in Spring 2025 for details about the 2024-25 UAC Awards.

CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES

The First Year Student Awards are given to students who have accomplished something remarkable within one of the categories listed below. Successful nominations should demonstrate that the student has made a significant and positive contribution to MIT in one or more of the following ways:

Athletics:
  • Student exemplifies true sportsmanship and is admired by his/her team (varisty or intramural)
  • Student played to the best of their ability and maintained a level of academic excellence
  • Student promoted school pride
Academics/Research:
  • Student participated in a high level of research 
  • Student was identified as a leader, helping others understand concepts 
Diversity & Culture:
  • Student engages in philosophical and practical educational opportunities
  • Student has made a contribution towards student life during the academic year
Entrepreneurship:

Student invested significant time to an idea or program 

Leadership:
  • Student worked with others in a common effort
  • Student enriched the quality of campus life
Performing Arts/Fine Arts:
  • Student has created or performed in an innovative project or activity
  • Student has composed, performed, or published a work or music ensemble
Service:
  • Student advocated for local/and or global justice issues
  • Student demonstrated the importance of making a better world for oneself & others
  • Student challenged themselves and others to serve others

Eligibility

  • Nominees must be members of the first year class in good academic standing and registered during the spring term.
  • Nominations should be based on achievements between August and March.
  • Self-nominations will not be accepted.
  • Campaigns are not recommended.