Meet the BSP Scholars
See Yourself in STEM.
Breakthrough Scholars are Clemson University undergraduate students who intend to pursue advanced degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Students considered for the program are inquisitive learners with demonstrated leadership potential and a desire to make a difference through research, service, and academic excellence.
The Breakthrough Scholars Program offers individualized support to these students to help them grow their leadership abilities, specialized knowledge, and experience in their chosen fields.
Find out how scholars are selected.
Meet our Scholar cohorts (organized by the year they were admitted to Clemson University) below:

2026 Scholars

Caroline Clayton
Hometown: Greenville, S.C.
Major: Genetics

Tiana Mallawaaratchy
Hometown: Charleston, S.C.
Major: Biological Sciences
2025 Scholars

Alejandra Rodriguez
Hometown: Easley, S.C.
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Visit Alejandra's LinkedIn page
2024 Scholars

Lada Palygina
Hometown: Mount Pleasant, S.C.
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Genetics
Visit Lada's LinkedIn page
2023 Scholars

Stephanie Rodriguez-Umana
Hometown: North Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Major: Civil Engineering
Minor: Engineering Leadership
Visit Stephanie's LinkedIn page












