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About the Spark

The Spark is the official blog of Alfred University, created to illuminate the dynamic experiences, creative achievements, and unique perspectives of our student community. The Spark captures the essence of what it means to be a Saxon. Whether you're a prospective student dreaming of your next chapter, or a current Saxon shaping your journey, let The Spark guide you. 

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A photo of a student working on an electric vehicle
Club Spotlight: Drive Innovation with the Electric Vehicle Club
Posted By Cameron Begue
Feb 05, 2026
College isn't all lectures and homework. For mechanical and electrical engineers, Alfred University’s Electric Vehicle Club provides students with real‑world experience in a wide range of valuable skills, including welding, electrical work, and teamwork.
A photo of a woman standing on the coastline of Maine
Art‑Inspired Summers: Finding Time, Place, and Purpose in Maine
Posted By Alfred University
Feb 04, 2026
Art‑inspired summers are a long‑standing tradition at Alfred University. Making and creating have always been central to both the educational experience and the community itself. That belief continues to shape Summer Arts at Alfred, a series of workshops and residencies designed for artists at different stages of their lives. Two workshops take place in Maine, where the landscape itself becomes a vital part of the creative experience.
A photo of Sean Killian with a pace clock
Engineering in Action: How an Alfred Student Improved Campus Tech
Posted By Alfred University
Jan 30, 2026
What happens when a curious student is encouraged to explore how things work? Just ask Sean Killian, a sophomore electrical engineering and mathematics double major, and a member of the men’s swimming and diving team, who recently redesigned and improved the scoring and timing system at Alfred's McLane Center swimming pool.
A photo collage for Alfred University Summer
Explore Our Pre-College Programs & Arts Workshops this Summer
Posted By Alfred University
Jan 23, 2026
Summer at Alfred University is a time for exploration, creativity, and meaningful learning—for students of all ages and experience levels. Alfred offers a diverse range of programs that invite middle school and high school students, as well as adult learners, to develop skills, explore new interests, and experience Alfred’s vibrant campus community.
Photo of Bradley Keough
Alumni Spotlight: Meet Bradley Keough
Posted By Alfred University
Jan 16, 2026
Bradley Keough had been living in England until just two weeks before classes at AU started. Though he had never been to campus before, he instantly fell in love when he arrived.
A photo collage of Alfred University students
Your First Months at Alfred: What to Expect & Enjoy
Posted By Valeriia Radko
Jan 15, 2026
Starting your first semester of college can feel stressful—but it’s also an exciting milestone. At Alfred University, your journey will be filled with new experiences, fresh challenges, and incredible opportunities to grow academically and personally. Here’s what to expect during your first months and a few tips to help you make the most of them.
A photo of students studying
Making the Most of Financial Aid at Alfred University
Posted By Valeriia Radko
Jan 09, 2026
Financial aid is a crucial part of college life, helping students manage the cost of their education. Understanding how financial aid works can increase your chances of earning larger awards. To help you feel more supported, we created this guide to walk you through the different financial aid options at Alfred University, important deadlines to remember, external scholarship resources, and tips on how to maintain your awards while in college.
A photo of two students in a kayak
Gain the AU Advantage: A Summer Program that Opens Doors
Posted By Cameron Begue
Jan 08, 2026
Transitioning to college life is hard for anyone. Students have to get used to living on their own in a new place, adjust to a new lifestyle, and make new friends—all at the same time. This difficult transition can be harder for some students than others. Luckily, at Alfred University, some first‑year students can get a helping hand through the AU Advantage Summer Bridge Program.
fiat lux!
We're on Top: Alfred University improves standing in latest U.S. News and World Report rankings
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 17, 2025
U.S. News & World Report recently released its annual rankings of colleges and universities and Alfred University is among the institutions of higher education recognized.
Olivia Cronmiller
Alumni Spotlight: Meet Olivia Cronmiller
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 16, 2025
Olivia Cronmiller channeled her love of math and science into AU’s materials science and engineering program. She earned her undergraduate degree in the field in 2019 and received minors in mathematics, chemistry and business administration as well.
A photo of Stull Observatory
Explore Stull Observatory: Alfred University’s Gateway to the Stars
Posted By Cameron Begue
Dec 16, 2025
High above the village of Alfred sits Stull Observatory, Alfred University’s very own gateway to the cosmos. An observatory at a school of Alfred’s size is rare—but thanks to our dark skies and stunning views of the Milky Way, it’s the perfect place to look up and wonder.
A photo of students smiling in the snow
I'm In! Now What? A Quick Guide for Admitted Students
Posted By Valeriia Radko
Dec 16, 2025
Congratulations on your acceptance to Alfred University! You’ve already achieved something amazing, and we’re thrilled you’re considering joining our Saxon family. Choosing a college can feel overwhelming, so here’s a quick guide to make your next steps easier.
fiat lux!
You Asked, We Answered: Top 10 FAQ From Prospective Students
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 16, 2025
Choosing the right college comes with a lot of questions—and we’ve got answers! At Alfred University, we know that understanding campus life, academics, and opportunities is key to making your decision. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top 10 most frequently asked questions from prospective students and answered them all in one place. Whether you’re curious about first-year classes, housing, or what life in Alfred is really like, this guide will help you feel confident about your next steps.
Frederic Beaudry holding a blue jay
Faculty Spotlight: Meet Fred Beaudry
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 16, 2025
When Fred Beaudry visited the campus to interview for a position as an associate professor of Environmental Science, he realized something special about AU.
Holly Lyimo headshot
Student Spotlight: Meet Holly Lyimo
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 16, 2025
Holly arrived at Alfred to use her studies in mechanical engineering as a stepping stone toward mechatronics and electrical engineering. Her long-term goal is personal and profound: to design accessibility devices inspired by her family’s experience with disability.
Four Alfred University students standing together at the Career Fair, wearing name badges and smiling for a photo in front of an Aluminum Dynamics booth.
Fall Career Fairs: Networking, Internships, and Job Opportunities
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 16, 2025
Alfred University students explored their future steps into the professional world through two events hosted recently by the Career Development Center. Altogether, the fairs drew more than 320 students representing more than 40 different majors.
Johnson Jasson headshot
Student Spotlight: Meet Johnson Jasson
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 16, 2025
For Johnson, Alfred University checked all the right boxes: a smaller campus, AACSB accreditation, and a strong engineering program. Initially interested in data analytics, he shifted toward electrical engineering while still planning to keep data as part of his studies.
Alia Wahban headshot
Student Spotlight: Meet Alia Wahban
Posted By Alfred University
Dec 16, 2025
Alia arrived at Alfred with a strong record of achievement: a first-place award and special recognition at the International Science and Engineering Fair for her hydrogen sensor research. She now sees Alfred as the place to expand on that work and explore how science can address climate change and its urgent public health challenges.
A photo of the outside of The Collegiate
Discover Alfred’s Local Gems: Shops, Cafés, and Eats You’ll Love
Posted By Cameron Begue
Dec 16, 2025
The town of Alfred isn't just home to two universities—it’s also a tight-knit rural community full of charm. Alfred boasts unique small businesses, each with its own personality. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to study, a late-night snack, or a gift to send home, Alfred has something for everyone. Here are a few places you’ll want to check out.
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