Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University has announced that Benjamin Schuessler, from Livonia, Michigan, is one of the 21 students awarded the Presidential Scholar title for 2024. This distinction recognizes first-year students who show academic excellence, leadership, and community commitment.

“I thought a full ride was completely out of the realm of possibility for me,” said Schuessler. “That is why the scholarship I received is not only a testament to how much I have grown as a person, but also to the many people and experiences that have allowed me to become the person I am today.”

The EMU Presidential Scholarship, valued at up to $100K, covers full tuition, fees, and room and board for four years. Recipients are active members of The Honors College at EMU. The scholarship aligns with EMU’s mission to support students in achieving educational goals while impacting the world positively.

Schuessler graduated from Winston Churchill High School and aims to study biochemistry with a minor in music performance. In high school, he participated in various societies and clubs including National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society. He plans further studies aiming at discovering treatments for cancer and tuberculosis.

“We are excited to have such an impressive group of scholars join us at EMU this fall,” said Ann Eisenberg, dean of the Honors College. “They come from different backgrounds, cultures, and countries, but they all share a passion for learning, service, and leadership. They are an impressive bunch as well, with a mean SAT score of 1320 and an average high school GPA of 4.02.”

Beyond academics, Schuessler studies organ under Michael Burkhardt since 2020. “Being able to work with him is one of the reasons I came to EMU,” he noted.

Students can apply for this scholarship during their senior year in high school.

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university serving nearly 13,000 students across various disciplines.