Michigan Tech Student Foundation Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does MTSF do and how do we help students?

A: MTSF helps students through various aspects: financially, we award over $16,000 in scholarships each year; recreationally, we organize and host an oozeball tournament in the spring; working with parents/guardians, we are responsible for the ABC and Survival Kit programs to send reminders to students that someone is thinking of them; working with Alumni, we distribute t-shirts to the incoming first year class, hand out towels to participants at the cardboard boat races during Homecoming, deliver chili to students during the Winter Carnival All-Nighter, and other different projects.

Q: How do I join MTSF?

A: A schedule of our bi-weekly meetings can be found on “Meetings” under the “About MTSF” tab; anyone is welcome to attend and if interested in joining, talk to the President after the meeting.

Q: Where is the MTSF office located?

A: We are located on the second floor of the Alumni House in room 203.

Q: When and how was MTSF started?

A: The group was established in 1977 when seven students were selected by Ron Helman who at the time was the executive director of the Michigan Tech Fund.

Q: What are the committees?

A: There are four committees: Events, Scholarships, Student Services and Membership, and Culture of Philanthropy; it is a requirement that every member belong to one of the committees.

Q: How do I decide what committee to join?

A: Members may join the committee that is of the greatest interest to them. The main priority of the Events committee is to organize the annual oozeball tournament in addition to planning socials for MTSF members. The Student Services and Membership committee is responsible for the recruitment of new members in addition to handling the ABC and Survival Kit programs. The Scholarships committee is in charge of all aspects of the scholarships MTSF offers and awards students. The Culture of Philanthropy is our newest addition to MTSF; the committee has organized a new program selling roses at Fall and Spring Commencements with the proceeds being returned to the students in the form a scholarship to a deserving first year.

Q: Can I be on more than one committee?

A: Members are asked to commit their time to only one committee.

Q: How do I become a committee chair?

A: Nominations and elections are held during the first meeting of the academic year.

Q: What scholarships are offered through MTSF?

A: A listing of our scholarships can be found at “Scholarships” under the “Our Programs” tab.

Q: If I am a member, can I apply for the scholarships?

A: Members are not allowed to apply for the scholarships listed on our website, however there are scholarships that are awarded throughout the academic year to deserving members.

Q: If I have an idea for an event/scholarship, who do I talk to?

A: Contact the corresponding committee head.

Q: How do I become a member of the Executive Board?

A: Nominations and elections are held each spring for the upcoming academic year; if interested in learning more about one the Executive Board positions, feel free to contact the member currently in the position.

Q: Why should I join?

A: The members of MTSF are undergraduate and graduate students who wish to develop their leadership abilities, possess a desire for campus involvement, and have a willingness to work and help others all while having fun!

Q: What is the time commitment if I join MTSF?

A: General meetings are held bi-weekly with committees meeting during off weeks; general meetings last approximately fifteen to thirty minutes while the duration of the committee meetings depend on the current projects at the time. In addition to meetings, members are asked to volunteer their time for various events throughout the year. However, the time commitment ultimately is up to the individual members themselves.

Q: Why is MTSF important to Michigan Tech?

A: Under the supervision of the Michigan Tech Fund and Alumni Relations, we strive to promote, enhance, and foster the development of Michigan Tech as a quality institute of higher education.