A&S student Curtis Atkisson named Goldwater Scholar

Curtis Atkisson has been awarded a Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. Atkisson, a sophomore anthropology and psychology major, is one of 278 recipients honored nationwide out of more than 1,000 applicants. This prestigious scholarship provides up to $7,500 per academic year and universities are allowed to nominate four undergraduates for the award per year.

Goldwater scholars are selected on the basis of academic merit in mathematics, science and engineering. Atkisson admitted it was a stretch for him to even be nominated because his majors are in the social sciences. However, since he has a double minor in biology and math and has taken classes in computer programming and economics, he has shown that he is well rounded. This trait was appealing to the Trustees.

Atkisson, who graduated high school from the School of Osage at Lake of the Ozarks, has put himself through college by working 30 hours a week. He carries a full class load while maintaining at 4.0 GPA and conducting research. Atkisson admits this leaves little time for extracurricular activities, which is one component of the Goldwater Scholarship application.

"Not being involved in clubs was a weak point for me on the application," says Atkisson. "But the purpose of the Goldwater Scholarship is to find students who will be successful in graduate school and conduct relevant research. I'm doing that now."

Atkisson has co-written a book chapter currently in publication with his mentor Ed Brent, professor of sociology and health service management. They have two other papers underway and are planning a book. Brent says that Atkisson plans on graduating from MU as an undergraduate with several refereed papers and a book and is also working with other professors on additional projects.

"He is, without a doubt, one of the most exceptional young students I have ever had the pleasure of knowing," says Brent. "He is brilliant. He is challenging. And he takes more visible pleasure in learning than anyone I have ever known. I can say with complete honesty that Curtis is the strongest undergraduate student I have ever met, and already is stronger than 99 percent of the graduate students I have had the privilege of working with in my more than 35 years as an academic."

According to Atkisson, this scholarship will enable him to drastically reduce his work hours so he can concentrate on his research. His primary research is the evolution of human behavioral ecology.

"I want to get the word out that I am available for research opportunities beginning next month and over the next several years," says Atkisson.

Ines Segert, from the Department of Psychological Sciences, is another mentor to Atkisson. " I think the best way to describe Curtis is that he is intellectually voracious; he is constantly reading, researching, asking questions and evaluating assumptions," says Segert.  "This is sustained by his incredible work ethic.  I don't believe he knows the meaning of the word vacation."

"In Curtis' case, I can honestly say that he is making us proud. I have the greatest confidence he will be one of those students we faculty brag about when we talk about why we like teaching," says Brent. "My personal belief is that this is only one of many awards he will receive during his career."

The Barry M. Goldwater scholarship and Excellence in Education Program was established by Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry M. Goldwater, who served his country for 56 years as a soldier and statesman, including 30 years of service in the U.S. Senate.

The purpose of the foundation is to provide a continuing source of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians and engineers by awarding scholarships to college students who intend to pursue careers in these fields.

Links:

Department of Psychological Sciences | Ines Segert
Department of Anthropology
Department of Sociology | Ed Brent

The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation