Honors College Funded Experience Report Guidelines
The Honors College at Marshall University believes in celebrating and showcasing the achievements of our students, particularly when their experiences are enriched by the college’s support through grants, awards, and scholarships. We require that recipients of such support share the outcomes of their experience to highlight its impact on their academic and personal growth–this is referred to as a form of “deliverable” to the college following a supported project.
Deliverable Options
At the end of your project, you’ll need to submit a “deliverable” that captures the essence and impact of your experience. The deliverable may include a written summary, a post-grant report, and/or a public presentation. Specific options, which may vary based on the nature of the support you received, will be outlined in your original application or award contract. Here’s a general structure to guide you in creating a deliverable that effectively shares your journey and outcomes.
Format Option 1: Press Release
For a public-facing summary, craft a “press release” that includes the following elements, using the THIRD PERSON format:
- Introduction to Your Achievement
Introduce yourself (in the third person) and provide an overview of your award, including the type of support received (e.g., Honors Council Grant, Honors Internship) and what it enabled you to do. - Description of Your Experience
Describe what the award allowed you to achieve, emphasizing any unique aspects of your experience (e.g., studying Japanese culture in Japan, engaging in an internship with a local organization). Highlight details that make the experience impactful or newsworthy. - Personal Growth and Future Impact
Reflect on what this opportunity has provided for your personal and academic growth. Share how it aligns with your future goals, such as graduate studies, professional aspirations, or broader life ambitions. - Additional Honors Involvement
Include details on your leadership, involvement, or roles within the Honors College or other student organizations that have enriched your time at Marshall and contribute to your profile as a well-rounded student.
EXAMPLE
Honors Student Sarah Kim Embarks on International Research for Sustainable Water Solutions
[Abbreviated to serve as an illustration only]
Sarah Kim, a sophomore environmental science major in Marshall University’s Honors College, was awarded the prestigious Honors Council Grant in the Spring 2030 semester. This $750 grant, funded by the Honors College and generous community donors, will support her summer research on sustainable water management in Costa Rica. Kim’s research will focus on innovative water conservation methods that blend indigenous knowledge with modern technology to support local communities in arid regions.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work in Costa Rica and learn from people who have a deep understanding of their ecosystem. My work there will focus on the delicate balance between water conservation and local agricultural needs,” said Kim. Her study will culminate in a comprehensive report on how sustainable practices in water management can be adapted for use in similar environments worldwide, including Appalachia.
In addition to her studies, Sarah is active on campus as vice president of the Green Club and a volunteer with the university’s recycling initiative. She intends to pursue a master’s degree in environmental policy, with future goals of influencing sustainable practices in her home state of West Virginia.
Format Option 2: Post-Grant Reflection Report
A reflection report allows for a more narrative-style account of your experience, offering a space to detail your journey and its significance. This format might include:
- Summary of Support and Project
Mention the specific type and amount of support received, and give a quick introduction to the experience it enabled. - Detailed Account of the Experience
Describe the highlights of your experience, including specific activities, challenges, and accomplishments. Use vivid language to help readers understand what you learned and experienced. - Reflection on the Impact
Reflect on how this opportunity has influenced your perspective, skills, or future plans. Share how the Honors College has prepared you for your next steps and how you intend to apply these insights in future academic, personal, or professional endeavors.
EXAMPLE
Reflection on Study Abroad Experience in Morocco
In Fall 2030, I was awarded an Honors Council Grant of $500 to participate in a study abroad program in Morocco. The grant made it possible for me to attend the “North African Cultural Immersion” course, an experience that profoundly impacted my academic and personal perspectives. During my time in Rabat, I studied the rich history and resilience of North African communities, explored ancient marketplaces, and even stayed with a local family for a week to fully engage in their customs and daily routines.
This experience was transformative. Learning directly from Moroccan educators about environmental challenges and solutions, I gained new insights that are hard to capture in a classroom. Additionally, through interactions with my host family and local peers, I deepened my understanding of intercultural communication and the importance of respect in unfamiliar cultural contexts.
The Honors College’s support made this learning possible, and I’m eager to apply these new skills and perspectives back at Marshall. Inspired by Morocco’s environmental practices, I plan to integrate these insights into my environmental studies major. I strongly encourage my fellow honors students to consider applying for international opportunities through the Honors College—it will open doors you never knew were there.
Format Option 3: Presentation
For students participating in the Honors Internship or those seeking an additional way to share their experiences, consider creating a video presentation or in-person presentation. This format should:
- Summarize Key Elements of your experience (similar to the press release or report formats).
- Highlight Visuals or Artifacts from your project (e.g., photos, videos, documents), to provide a more immersive experience for the audience.
- Encourage Interaction and Q&A (if presenting live), allowing for a richer dialogue around your experience and insights gained.
This presentation can be shared at campus events, with incoming Honors students, or within the Honors College’s network to inspire future applicants and recipients. Examples of supported interns can be see here and used as a possible model.
