University of South Alabama sophomore Arslan Arshad, a chemical engineering major, has been named as a 2013 Goldwater Scholar by the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation. The prestigious scholarships are awarded to college students who intend to pursue careers in science, mathematics, and engineering.

The 271 Goldwater Scholars were selected on the basis of academic merit from a field of 1,107 students who were nominated by the faculties of colleges and universities nationwide. As part of the
scholarship, Arshad will receive funds to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books and room and board up to a maximum of $7,500 per year for two years.

“I am both honored and excited to receive the Barry Goldwater scholarship, “Arshad said. “It is wonderful recognition and a great opportunity. Thanks to the faculty at USA, who nominated me for this award.”

Arshad, from Gulfport, Miss., is majoring in both chemical engineering and biomedical science and intends to pursue a doctorate in biomedical engineering as well as a medical degree. He is conducting research in conjunction with Drs. Silas Leavesley and Thomas Rich on hyperspectral imaging technologies.

For many, receiving the Goldwater Scholarship is considered a bellwether for future recognition from prestigious post-graduate fellowship programs. Recent Goldwater Scholars have been awarded 80 Rhodes Scholarships, 118 Marshall Awards, 110 Churchill Scholarships and numerous other distinguished fellowships.

Arshad is a member of USA’s Honors Program, the engineering honor society, Tau Beta Pi, and the premedical honor society, Alpha Epsilon Delta.

The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program was established by Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry M. Goldwater, who served his country for 56 years as a soldier and statesman, including 30 years of service in the U.S. Senate. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide a continuing source of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers by awarding scholarships to college students who intend to pursue careers in these fields.