Michael Patrick Howard, a chemical engineering junior, was one of two Penn State students who received a Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship for the 2012-13 academic year. He is one of only 58 engineering students nationwide who received the award.
Nathan Thomas Jacobs, a student in biology and immunology, was the other Penn State recipient.
The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, honoring Sen. Barry M. Goldwater, is awarded annually to undergraduate students who excel in science, mathematics and engineering. Students are nominated for the scholarship by faculty at their colleges and universities. This year, 282 sophomores and juniors received scholarships. Most of the recipients plan to continue their education to earn a doctoral degree.
Howard's career goals include earning his doctorate in chemical engineering, researching polymer physics and becoming a teaching professor at a research university.