Robertson Scholars are expected to participate in the various elements of the program, including but not limited to the first-year retreat and dinner series, the cross-campus five-course requirement and semester switch, and the first two summer enrichment programs (domestic and international). Students are chosen to participate in this program based on their demonstrated ability to make the most of opportunities that are presented to them and to create possibilities where none may have previously existed. As scholars, they are expected to continue making the most of the options provided by the program and by the two universities with which they are affiliated.
There are several initiatives in the Robertson Scholars Program designed to foster the program's core values in our students. To help scholars enhance their academic and personal skills, scholars are required each year to submit a Personal Development Plan and review it with a Robertson Scholars Program staff member. Prior to the beginning of their junior year, all Scholars are required to participate in a Personal Effectiveness Retreat which focuses on increasing self-awareness and building practical but fundamental leadership skills.
All scholars are required to maintain a normal course load each semester (four semester courses or their equivalent at Duke, a minimum of 12 and normally 15 hours at UNC-Chapel Hill). Scholars are expected to complete all graduation requirements at their home institution. Continuation in the program depends on the maintenance of a 3.0 grade point average at the end of the freshmen year and a 3.3 average each succeeding year. A student who fails to achieve the required average will be put "on review," and each year thereafter the student must obtain a 3.3 average in order to maintain the Robertson Scholarship.
Being chosen as a Robertson Scholar is an honor, and during their time in the program, scholars must behave in a way that reflects this honor. If a student is ineligible to return to Duke or UNC-Chapel Hill for academic reasons or dismissed for disciplinary reasons, that student will lose his or her eligibility for the scholarship. Scholars are expected to conduct themselves in such a way that they will bring credit to themselves, other Robertson Scholars, and Duke and UNC. The award will be terminated upon conduct found to be incompatible with the standards of the Robertson Scholars Program.
