Wheaton Warrenville South High School Senior Gets Full Ride to Michigan State University

WHEATON, IL — A senior at Wheaton Warrenville South High School has been granted a full scholarship to attend Michigan State University (MSU). Kyle Kierzyk of Wheaton, Illinois, will be a member of the school's Honors College when he starts this autumn.

Kierzyk plans to double major in chemical engineering and computational mathematics. Kyle is the son of Bob and Carol Kierzyk.

“I chose MSU because of the academic flexibility that the Honors College provides. Having this academic flexibility makes it possible to fully utilize all the opportunities a Big Ten Campus presents in order to explore my interests,” Kierzyk told MSU.

Kierzyk is a National AP Scholar, member of the National Honor Society. Also an Eagle Scout, Kierzyk has participated in Scholastic Bowl and on the math team.

Kierzyk was picked from more than 1,100 top high school seniors who applied to MSU. The application process included an extensive general knowledge examination.

He is one of just 20 incoming MSU students to receive an Alumni Distinguished Scholarship or University Distinguished Scholarship. Recipients were chosen based on high school records and achievements, test scores, the general knowledge exam and an interview with MSU administrators and faculty.

The scholarships are among the most competitive awards in the country. Each scholarship is valued at about $120,000 for in-state students and approximately $200,000 for out-of-state students. Scholarships cover room and board, tuition and a stipend for a term of eight semesters.

Jim Cotter, director of admissions, said in a statement, “As students are reminded throughout the recruitment process, it is not only what Michigan State University offers them once on campus, it is also about what they will accomplish toward making our world changing university even greater,” “Such bright and talented students are game-changers.”

Cynthia Jackson-Elmoore, dean of the Honors College, added, “The Honors College gives students an all-access pass to Michigan State University, breaking down barriers for talented people to flourish,” “We congratulate these students on earning these prestigious scholarships and look forward to seeing them succeed at university.”