Pictured: Synthesized Program for Undergraduate Retention (SPUR) scholar Haley Pepper

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of engineers is projected to grow four percent from now until 2029, adding approximately 316,000 new jobs.

For the last five years, Ed Gatzke, chemical engineering undergraduate director and associate professor, has been leading the University of South Carolina Synthesized Program for Undergraduate Retention (SPUR) to increase retention of Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing students. 

The National Science Foundation has provided nearly $1 million in funding for the project, which was initially slated for five years. Gatzke is currently trying to extend the project by one year to support a third cohort. Co-principal investigators are Mechanical Engineering Emeritus Professor Jed Lyons and Sona Gholizadeh, a former research assistant professor at the college. 

Since June 1, 2020, SPUR has supported 34 engineering and computing students. The program helps low-income, talented scholars financially, academically and professionally with the goal of increasing retention rates. SPUR also raises awareness about low-income and first-generation STEM students through encouraging diversity in STEM education and careers. 

SPUR initially found eligible incoming students to apply by collaborating with Gamecock Guarantee. There were originally two cohorts, each lasting four years, to fulfill the five-year grant. The first cohort (class of 2024) consisted of 11 students, while the second (class of 2025) had eight students. The third cohort was added in 2022 with leftover funding. Gatzke contacted current Pell Grant-eligible USC engineering and computing students who could apply to enter the program as undergraduate students. Fifteen students receive funding for the third cohort. 

SPUR participants receive annual funding to fulfill up to $10,000 of the calculated average unmet costs each year. This includes tuition, board, housing and other personal expenses. Gatzke says this project is important because it helps more students become successful by removing financial burdens.

“We're using the term ‘fill the bucket,’ trying to make sure they don't have to take out loans if it’s possible,” Gatzke says. 

SPUR used data indicating a 40% to 80% retention rate for this low-income, talented student population. The program initially aimed to achieve an 80% retention rate among 27 students. Currently, there is a 79% graduation rate for 34 students. Six of the 11 students in the first cohort and six of the eight in the second cohort have graduated. All 15 students in the third cohort are on track to graduate. 

“The SPUR program encouraged and allowed me to take a leap and attend USC. It has been a great source of motivation and guidance,” says one MCEC senior who is a SPUR participant. 

While many of SPUR’s first planned activities were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the directors have provided support through consistent communication with students and events, such as luncheons and dinners. A peer mentor program provides individual advice and attention for each student. One previous program, known as The Resiliency Project, helped students persevere through their unique challenges and gave talks to SPUR scholars. 

“The personal support provided by the program gave me a strong foundation during my time at USC, and the financial support allowed me to pursue my interests freely,” says Haley Pepper, a SPUR scholar who earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biomedical engineering from USC. 

SPUR students have access to specific class sections for their program, including one similar to University 101 with a professional focus. The Student Services Office helps these students navigate advising, study abroad and complete university petitions or forms. In addition, seminars and guest speakers inspire SPUR students, while the college’s Career Center provides resources and guidance for engineering careers. 

“Dr. Gatzke fostered a sense of community among the program's members, and his class taught me how to navigate the hardships that come with being in college,” Pepper says. 

Surveys completed by students measure the effectiveness of SPUR. Some of the questions include the students' sense of belonging and how they define success.

“For example, the biggest thing to me is that students in the third cohort self-identify as highly motivated, dedicated and hardworking,” says Gatzke. 

While there are no plans to extend the specific SPUR initiative beyond May 31, 2026, developments in the Engineering and Computing Living and Learning Community at USC will provide intentional community and guidance opportunities for future students. 

“Without the SPUR program, I would not be in the position that I am in today,” Pepper says. “I’m incredibly grateful for the support.”