University Catalog > Undergraduate Programs > Undergraduate Honors Programs > The S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program
The S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program, founded in 1999, seeks to enhance education at Stern College by offering an exceptionally broad, deep, and rigorous academic experience for our most outstanding students. Honors students commit themselves to intellectual excellence, disciplined effort, and a transformative pursuit of understanding and personal growth.
Honors courses in the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and Jewish studies emphasize research, intensive writing, and critical thinking skills, empowering students to engage in sophisticated study that fosters both expansive knowledge and specialized expertise. Close interactions with faculty through unique coursework, individual mentoring, and senior honors theses help students develop the confidence and capabilities needed for graduate study, lifelong learning, and leadership.
In addition to coursework, honors students participate in a wide array of extracurricular activities, including distinguished speakers, professional development opportunities, dinner events, alumni panels, and cultural outings that complement their academic work and connect them with the resources of New York City and the richness of present-day Jewish life.
Built on the premise that high-achieving scholars thrive when brought together, challenged, and encouraged to excel, the Honors Program creates an intimate community within the wider campus environment. Our students embrace the responsibility of what it means to "be a blessing" to others (Gen. 12:2), developing as thoughtful scholars, skilled researchers, and leaders prepared to make meaningful contributions to their fields, communities, and society at large.
Graduates earn Honors distinction on transcripts and diplomas. For more information about the S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program, contact Dr. Shaina Trapedo, Director (shaina.trapedo@yu.edu).
Honors students participate in an array of extracurricular events and leadership opportunities on and off-campus that complement their academic work and cultivate personal and professional connections. A detailed list of event offerings and requirements for such activities appears in the Honors Student Handbook, including spending at least two Shabbatot on campus each semester.
1. Complete a minimum of five honors courses, used toward general liberal arts or major requirements.
2. Complete the following Honors Thesis course sequence:
HONR 4905 Honors Thesis Preliminary (1 credit)
HONR 4910 Honors Thesis Research (1 credit)
HONR 4920 Honors Thesis Writing (2 credits)
3. Maintain a 3.6 cumulative GPA and complete at least 84 on-campus credits.