Freshman aces ACT, earns four-year scholarship
When Edward J. Fensholt first took the ACT college entrance exam in his junior year at Olathe North High School, he scored 34 out of a possible 36.
He might have settled for the near perfect score, but Fensholt learned that KU offers a Perfect Achievement Scholarship that provides full tuition for up to four years to Kansas high school graduates who earn perfect scores on college entrance exams. The scholarship also provides housing in a traditional residence hall with a full meal package and an allowance for books.
With his eye on the prized scholarship, valued at about $58,000 for four years, Fensholt took the ACT a second time, scored a perfect 36 and this fall became the fourth KU freshman to receive the Perfect Achievement Scholarship.
KU first awarded the Perfect Achievement Scholarship in 2005. The renewable scholarship recognizes Kansas high school graduates who achieve the top score of 36 on the ACT or 1,600 on the SAT. Eligible students must choose KU right after high school graduation and maintain a 3.25 grade-point average while enrolled. They may also qualify for other KU scholarships and awards.
Though Fensholt's interests include literature and science, the potential for a career as a researcher and teacher, particularly searching for new ways to combat pathogens with viruses, interests him most.
"And I have to admit I'm a big KU basketball fan," says Fensholt, who has traveled to campus many times with his family to attend football and basketball games and visit the museums.
He is the son of Edward and Renee Fensholt of Olathe. Edward's sister, Rebecca, a year younger, is also a KU freshman this fall. She is planning to major in journalism and German. He has two older brothers, Brian who attended KU and is now in working Arizona, and Michael, serving in the U.S. Army.
