What is “Enrichment”
Enrichment involves students who become interested in pursuing a self-selected area and are willing to commit the time necessary for advanced content acquisition and process training in which they assume the role of a first-hand inquirer. Enrichment activities demand sustained engagement with a topic or interest beyond what is required for any course or degree program. In other words, activities that are required for one’s degree program (e.g., senior design projects in the School of Engineering; senior projects in the School of Fine Arts; group projects in School of Business courses; etc.) do not meet the definition of “enrichment activities.”
When should I submit an application to use my Enrichment Award funds?
Four weeks prior to commencing your enrichment activity (to allow time for processing, which can take up to a month).
Where can I find the application?
You can find it in the Quest Portal: here. Please be sure to include all of your supporting documents (your budget and documentation for airfare, hotel, and other expenses) with your application.
What do I need to complete my Presidential Enrichment Application?
You will need a budget worksheet, contact information (name and contact info of your supervisor, program coordinator, etc.), and supporting documents (e.g. a letter of acceptance to the program, letter of offer for an internship, letter from a research mentor, conference registration confirmation).
How do I apply for my Presidential Enrichment if I want to study abroad?
If you are using your Enrichment Award funds for study abroad, you will complete the Enrichment Award application and budget sheet (please remember that the award covers travel and room and board, not program fees or tuition).
Do I have to register for the conference I’m attending before I apply for my Enrichment?
Yes. If you are attending or presenting at a conference, you must include a printed confirmation that you have been accepted and paid registration fee.
How do I calculate meals if I am traveling?
The Travel Worksheet, which you can find on the Budget page, has instructions for how to calculate the cost of meals each day (called a per diem).
How do I calculate travel costs by mileage?
The Travel Worksheet (on the Budget page) will do the calculation for you. You will need to determine how many miles you will be traveling, and it will multiply by the current mileage rate. One of the easiest ways get accurate mileage is via Google maps (of which you can take a screenshot to document the distance).
How do I access my money?
If your award is approved, and you accept it, we will inform Financial Aid, who will then apply the award amount to your account. Your funds will not be issued to you if you have any outstanding balances on your account, (i.e. parking tickets, late fees, infirmary/pharmacy bills). The award funding can vary depending upon the type and circumstances of your Enrichment activity. Once the funds are posted to your account, you can request a refund check from the Bursar’s Office.
Do I have to do anything once I complete my activity?
Yes! After completing your activity, you must complete a 300-word reflection by the date noted in your award letter (usually two weeks after the completion of your activity). You will also need to supply verification that you have completed the activity.
Can I apply for my award retroactively?
No. You may not apply retroactively.
Can I request funds for an activity that will take place after I graduate?
No. Your enrichment activity must be complete before your degree is awarded. This is true even if you incur expenses related to the activity prior to graduation.
I am an engineering major; can I use my enrichment award to offset costs associated with my senior design project?
No. Enrichment awards may not be used for activities related to courses for which you are receiving credit and that are required for your degree.
I am an fine arts major; can I use my enrichment award to offset costs associated with my senior project?
No. Enrichment awards may not be used for activities related to courses for which you are receiving credit and that are required for your degree.
I am an Honors student; can I use my enrichment award to offset costs associated with my Honors Thesis/Project?
Yes. Honors theses are not a requirement for any degree at UConn. They are, by definition, enrichment activities, and therefore are eligible for enrichment award funding.
If I have money left when I graduate can I use it towards my master’s program at UConn?
No. The award can only be used during the first 8 semesters of your undergraduate studies, or until your undergraduate graduation, whichever comes first.
How long will it take to process my application?
It can take up to 4 weeks to process, which is why we strongly recommend that you submit your request at least a month prior to beginning your activity.
What happens if my application is incomplete?
We will contact you with instructions on what documents or information you still need to complete the application.