Seton Hill University surprised Ronald Picarsic, of Jeanette, Pa., with a full tuition scholarship for four years through the Division of Natural and Health Sciences on Friday, July 10. Picarsic is the son of Ronald and Sandra Picarsic. He plans to major in pre-engineering at Seton Hill.

In 2007, Seton Hill University created four full-tuition scholarships and awarded them to outstanding scholars who were incoming freshmen in the traditional undergraduate program at Seton Hill. For the 2009-2010 academic year, Seton Hill will award eight full-tuition scholarships. These scholarships are renewable for four years of study at Seton Hill and are valued at more than $100,000 each; students recognized are known as Seton Scholars. Two scholarships will be awarded annually in each of the following academic divisions based on the student’s selected major field of study: Humanities, Visual and Performing Arts, Natural and Health Sciences, and Social Sciences.

Selection Criteria for Seton Scholar in Seton Hill’s Division of Natural and Health Sciences: 1350 or higher combined SAT score, high school grade point average of 3.7 or higher (weighted), honors or Advanced Placement coursework pertinent to the major, demonstration of leadership or community service, a letter of recommendation that addresses the student’s ability to excel in the field of study, and an essay written by the student describing her/his decision to major in the field chosen. Majors in this division include Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Dietetics, Forensic Science, Mathematics, Medical Technology, Physician Assistant, and Pre-Med.