Solomon Scholars
Concordia’s Computing Scholars Program
Concordia University, Nebraska's Solomon Scholars program is a Christ-centered community for students pursing careers in computing, technology and problem-solving fields. Rooted in biblical wisdom and intentional mentorship, the program prepares students to use their technical gifts in faithful service to others.
What is a Solomon Scholar?
As a Solomon Scholar, you will:
- Complete hands-on projects, internships, competitions and computing-related service opportunities.
- Build meaningful relationships with faculty mentors, industry professionals and peers who share your interests.
- Gain practical experience applying computing skills to solve real-world problems for the sake of others.
- Develop technical knowledge and skills through coursework in computer science, mathematics, data science or related disciplines.
- Explore ethical and vocational questions surrounding artificial intelligence and technology.
- Engage in a close-knit scholarly community focused on collaboration and learning.
- Grow in wisdom and develop habits that prepare you for lifelong learning and service.
Apply to be a Solomon Scholar
Anyone who has been successfully admitted to Concordia University, Nebraska will be considered for Solomon Scholars by indicating their interest on the application. If you’ve already submitted your application but are interested in becoming a Solomon Scholar, please email the program director at marcus.gubanyi@cune.edu.
Applicants will submit a short cover letter describing their interest in computing vocations and why they want to be part of the Solomon Scholars community.
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
(Proverbs 1:7)
Solomon Scholars Experience
Solomon Scholars is built around mentorship, community and service. These experiences are designed to complement students’ coursework and help prepare them for faithful service in computing vocations.
Mentorship
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22).
Each Solomon Scholar is paired with faculty mentors and industry professionals who provide guidance throughout their time at Concordia Nebraska. Mentorship focuses not only on academic and career preparation, but also on wisdom, character and vocational growth. Through regular conversations and shared experiences, mentors help students:
- Navigate technical and professional challenges
- Develop strong habits and professional responsibility
- Reflect on ethical questions in computing and artificial intelligence
- Explore internships, research and career opportunities
- Grow in wisdom and discernment as future technology professionals
Community
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17).
Solomon Scholars learn alongside peers and mentors who challenge and support one another academically and professionally. The intentionally small cohort creates opportunities to foster meaningful relationships and collaborative learning. As part of the Solomon Scholars community, students may participate in:
- Collaborative projects
- Programming competitions and hackathons
- Student-led discussions and presentations
- Conferences and professional development events
- Peer mentoring and problem-solving
- Discussions surrounding technology, ethics and vocation
Students are expected to contribute actively to the learning and well-being of the community while encouraging one another toward excellence and faithful service.
Service
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” (Proverbs 3:27).
Solomon Scholars recognize that knowledge and problem-solving abilities are gifts from God that can be used to serve others. Service gives direction and purpose to the work scholars do both inside and outside the classroom. Service opportunities may include:
- Developing software or technical solutions
- Supporting campus technology initiatives
- Participating in service projects and research projects
- Helping community members navigate technology
- Volunteering in outreach and educational initiatives
- Using computing skills to address real-world needs
- Through service, students learn to apply their abilities with humility and care for others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to be a Solomon Scholar?
Solomon Scholars welcomes all applicants who are interested in serving in computing vocations after graduation. This includes careers in software engineering, data science, actuarial science, information technology, education and more. Both incoming freshman and transfer students are encouraged to apply.
What qualifications does a competitive applicant have?
A competitive applicant for Solomon Scholars demonstrates excellent academic preparation and a desire to grow in both knowledge and wisdom. Competitive applicants typically:
- have a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher,
- take responsibility and initiative in their work,
- demonstrate curiosity, problem-solving ability and a desire to continue learning,
- are eager to participate in mentorship, community and service opportunities,
- and are committed to maintaining satisfactory academic progress at Concordia University, Nebraska.
What are the benefits of being a Solomon Scholar?
Solomon Scholars benefit from mentorship, professional development opportunities, real-world experiences in computing, service projects and a close-knit scholarly community focused on preparing for computing vocations. Scholars build real-world experience and graduate with technical skills valued by graduate schools and future employers.
How will I know if I’m accepted into the program?
After applying to Concordia University, Nebraska and Solomon Scholars, students selected for the program will receive official communication from the program director with additional information about next steps. Applications are reviewed monthly and remain open while roster spots are available.
Can I be a Solomon Scholar and participate in other campus activities?
Yes. Solomon Scholars can participate in other campus activities. However, Solomon Scholars are not eligible to receive a scholarship from another athletic, performance or scholar community.
Will I still be able to have a full college experience while taking part in Solomon Scholars?
Yes. Solomon Scholars is designed to enhance your college experience through mentorship, community, professional preparation and service opportunities while still having time for campus life. Solomon Scholars are encouraged to participate in music ensembles, intramurals, daily worship, and other activities.
Will I have opportunities for internships and real-world experience?
Yes. Solomon Scholars are encouraged to pursue internships, research experiences, competitions, service projects and applied work throughout the program. The program director and mentors support students in pursuit of these opportunities.
What majors are eligible for Solomon Scholars?
The program is intended primarily for students pursuing computing-related fields such as computer science, data science, mathematics or related disciplines.
How many students are accepted each year?
The program is intentionally small to cultivate strong mentoring relationships and a close-knit learning community. Each year, Solomon Scholars accepts between 5 and 10 new members to maintain a community of around 20 scholars.
What kinds of activities do scholars participate in?
Solomon Scholars participate in mentorship, service projects, technical competitions, internships, conferences, collaborative projects and discussions about ethics, vocation and technology. The community gathers many times throughout each semester.
