The Goodnight Scholarships Office invests in impactful programming that supports scholars’ academic, personal, and professional growth while fostering a strong sense of community.
Goodnight Scholars Retreat
The annual Goodnight Scholars Retreat provides incoming scholars with an intentional opportunity to connect with one another, engage with program staff and student leaders, and begin building a strong sense of community before classes begin. Through campus exploration, collaborative challenges, leadership activities, and reflection, scholars gain a deeper understanding of the program while establishing relationships that support their academic success and personal growth throughout their time at NC State. The retreat continues to serve as a cornerstone of the Goodnight Scholar’s experience, fostering belonging, confidence, and engagement from day one.
“I really liked connecting with an older goodnight and becoming friends with more people. It made me feel a lot better about coming to ncsu because it’s such a big school but retreat made me feel more connected.”
The Professional Mentorship Program coordinated a record-breaking 45 pairings between the traditional and transfer populations across various STEM and STEM education fields. To support these connections, we provided a meeting guide with sample questions, which helped structure the mentorship program. The impact of this program on our students is profound; scholars shared that their mentors were able to provide them with invaluable, behind-the-scenes insights into their fields that they would not be able to get in a classroom. Ultimately, this program highlights the importance of structured mentorship in helping students confidently navigate their future career paths.
“What I liked most was having someone in my intended career who I could ask questions and get genuine guidance from. My mentor made me feel supported and welcomed, which helped me feel more confident and included in the computer science community.”
Abigail Close Computer Science, T’27
45 Pairings
Goodnight Scholar & Professional Mentorship Pairings
“It’s great to give back to the Goodnight Scholars Program and meet with students as they are navigating school life while also trying to figure out life after school. I always find it interesting to hear them talk through goals and how they plan to achieve them. On a professional level, it is nice to have access to future industry professionals, whether that means direct coworkers or a connection through another company.”
Justin May Mentor and Alumni, Class of 2022
Programming Highlights
Every month, Goodnight Scholars can choose from an exciting lineup of programs, including professional development workshops, company visits, social events, service projects, cultural celebrations, and more. Throughout the year, scholars participate in approximately 20 hours of programming, gaining valuable skills, exploring new opportunities, building lasting friendships, and creating a vibrant community that supports their growth both inside and outside the classroom.
256 Programs Offered
Total programs available to Goodnight Scholars through GSP and GTSP.
37 Program Ambassadors
Scholars who planned and led programs throughout the year.
WakeMed Company Visit
In October, 12 GSP Scholars participated in a company visit to WakeMed. During the visit, scholars connected with recruiters to learn more about career opportunities at WakeMed, toured the hospital, and participated in interactive activities that provided hands-on insight into the healthcare field.
Every year, we welcomes alumni back to connect and network with current students. This year, the event featured an alumni panel, followed by breakout tables where students had the opportunity to engage in conversations with alumni about different topics. Alumni shared their experiences, advice, and personal journeys since graduating from Goodnights, giving students valuable insight into the opportunities and paths available after graduation.
“Without the program I would not be where I am today. I feel that I would have still been able to succeed, but my path definitely would have been different. I will continue to stay involved because I want to give back. I like answering questions from current students to help them as well. I’m where I am today because of so many people who have helped me.”
Isaac Mayle Alumni, Class of 2023
143 Alumni participated in Goodnight programming throughout the year!
