A version of this story originally appeared on the Honors College website.
Michigan State University has awarded comprehensive scholarships to three incoming first-year James Madison College students. Eli Zaksek, Safia Behmen and Lucky Cofone are among 51 incoming MSU students to receive full merit scholarships.
The scholarships are considered some of the most competitive awards in the nation. They cover full tuition, room and board, and a stipend for up to eight semesters of undergraduate study.
Each awardee also receives a spot in the MSU Honors College’s Professorial Assistantship program, which provides a two-year paid research placement with a faculty mentor.
“As professorial assistants through the Honors College, these 51 scholars will work alongside world-class faculty to address real-world problems through meaningful research,” said MSU Honors College Dean Glenn Chambers, Ph.D. “Empowered with a Spartan education, they will become leaders of discovery positioned to make a global impact.”
Eli Zaksek is a graduate of Saline High School in Saline, Michigan, and will join MSU as a 2026 Alumni Distinguished Scholar. Alumni Distinguished Scholars are outstanding high school graduates who applied to MSU, wrote short essay responses, took an intensive general knowledge exam, and participated in interviews with the selection committee of faculty and staff this past winter.
"I chose MSU for the opportunities, flexibility, and support provided by the Honors College," wrote Zaksek. "Further, everyone at MSU has been extremely welcoming and kind, which allows me to be confident that I will be going somewhere where I can be part of a strong and vibrant community."
Safia Behmen and Lucky Cofone will join MSU as 2026 Williams Scholars. The Joseph R. and Sarah L. Williams Scholarship, named for MSU’s inaugural president and first lady, premiered in December 2024. Williams Scholars followed the same selection process as Alumni Distinguished Scholars: applying to MSU, submitting essays, taking a general knowledge exam, and interviewing with a faculty-staff committee.
The scholarship program is differentiated by an experiential learning opportunity, which awardees can propose and pursue with an additional $7,500 stipend.
“The Williams Scholarship enables our university to empower this group of talented scholars to pursue excellence without limits,” said MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. “With a global network, a culture of discovery, and a commitment to access and opportunity, MSU is uniquely positioned to help extraordinary students grow their talents and expand their impact on the world.”
Behmen is a graduate of BASIS Phoenix and comes to MSU from Scottsdale, Arizona. Behmen plans to major in International Relations through JMC.
"I chose Michigan State because it offers the kind of global, forward-thinking environment that aligns with my goals in international relations," wrote Behmen. "I was drawn to its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and emphasis on real-world impact through research and service. MSU feels like a place where I can grow intellectually while also engaging with global issues in a meaningful way."
Cofone is a graduate of Fairfield Ludlowe High School in Fairfield, Connecticut. Cofone plans to major in Political Theory & Constitutional Democracy through JMC.
"I chose MSU because of the amazing undergrad research opportunities and the vibrant community," wrote Cofone of her decision to come to MSU.
The 51 recipients of 2026 full merit scholarships represent thirteen states and five countries. They are pursuing degrees across nine different colleges at MSU.
“These students are extraordinary, not only because of what they have already achieved, but because of the energy, curiosity, and leadership they will bring to MSU. These scholarships help make it possible for them to join our campus community and make a meaningful impact across the university,” said MSU Interim Executive Director of Undergraduate Admissions Alexander Landen.
View the full list of scholarship recipients on the Honors College website.