In the aftermath of a devastating tornado that touched down in Springfield, Massachusetts, a class of Smith engineering students used this extreme of nature as a springboard for their study of engineering mechanics.

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Established in 1975, the Ada Comstock Scholars Program enables women of nontraditional college age to complete a bachelor of arts degree at a realistic pace, either part time or full time. Each Ada Comstock student attends the same classes and fulfills the same requirements as do all other Smith students. Their strong motivation and commitment provide an example for students of traditional college age; the diversity of their life experience enriches the classroom and their expectations challenge the faculty. Their achievements confirm the academic standards of the college.

The Ada Comstock Scholars Program combines the rigorous academic challenges of Smith with flexibility for women beyond the traditional college age by providing options for reduced course loads, special academic advising, career counseling and diverse housing options. Financial aid is available to each woman with demonstrated need.

There are approximately 100 women currently enrolled in the Ada Comstock Scholars Program; some bring their families with them, some come alone, some with a partner or spouse.

Should you apply as an Ada Comstock Scholar?
Women who are 24 or older or veterans or have a dependent other than a spouse must apply to Smith as Ada Comstock Scholars. Women must be at least 24 years by December 31 of the academic year in which they enter Smith (fall or spring). A student entering in January does not qualify as an Ada/independent student if she will turn 24 during her first term at the college. Normally, we expect students to enter with 48 or more transferable college level liberal arts credits. On average, admitted students have 50 transfer credits. The maximum number of transfer credits is 64. Women who have already earned a bachelor's degree are not eligible to apply. A woman who has attended Smith at some previous time may re-enter as an Ada Comstock Scholar, after applying for readmission through Smith's Office of the Registrar. Details about readmission are available here.

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