Buffalo Grove High School 2024 graduate Matija Scekic has received a full scholarship to attend Michigan State University (MSU) this fall, where he plans to major in chemical engineering through the College of Engineering and the Honors College.

Scekic was selected from approximately 1,200 of the top high school seniors who applied to MSU. He wrote short essay responses, took an intensive general knowledge exam, and participated in interviews with the selection committee this past winter to ultimately earn the scholarship.

“MSU provides opportunities to high achieving students that are unlike any other, such as the Professorial Assistantship program and dozens of Honors College clubs and groups which allow students to express themselves and pursue their unique interests as best they can,” Scekic said.

At his high school, Scekic has been active in football, track and field, and the Academic Challenge in Engineering Sciences.

Eighteen incoming MSU students have been awarded an Alumni Distinguished Scholarship or University Distinguished Scholarship that will cover full tuition, room and board, and a stipend for up to eight semesters of study.

The scholarships – considered among the most competitive awards in the country – are valued at approximately $140,000 for in-state students and $240,000 for out-of-state students.

Each awardee also receives a spot in the Honors College’s Professorial Assistantship program, which provides a two-year research placement with a faculty member.

“These 18 scholars represent a remarkable cohort of academic excellence and community engagement,” said Christopher Long, dean of the MSU Honors College through the scholarship competition cycle. “We look forward to how they will influence the Honors College, Michigan State University, and the world.”

The newest Alumni and University Distinguished Scholars come from nine different states and three countries. They are pursuing degrees across six MSU colleges.