Major Scholarships for Trinity University Students


Students selected by a faculty committee may seek nominations for competitive scholarships and fellowships and be elected to academic honor societies. The Office of Academic Affairs and faculty advisors will guide them through the application and interview procedures.

For information about Major Scholarships & Fellowships Recipients and Nominees click here.

For Other Scholarship and Fellowship Opportunities listed by class year click here.

BEINECKE SCHOLARSHIP
www.beineckescholarship.org

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Curtis Brown, Department of Philosophy

Summary:

The program seeks to encourage and enable highly motivated students to pursue opportunities available to them and to be courageous in the selection of a graduate course of study.  Since 1975 the program has selected more than 335 college juniors from 94 different schools for support during graduate study at any accredited university.  Each scholar receives $2,000 immediately prior to entering graduate school and an additional $30,000 while attending graduate school.  There are no geographic restrictions on the use of the scholarship, and recipients are allowed to supplement the award with other scholarships, assistantships and research grants.  Scholars are encouraged to begin graduate study as soon as possible following graduation from college, and must utilize all of the funding within five years of completion of undergraduate studies.  Trinity can nominate one student per year for the award.  Approximately 100 schools can nominate students, and approximately 20 awards are granted each year.

Requirements:

  • Awards are exclusively for graduate study in the arts, social sciences, or humanities (not for professional school or for study in the natural sciences).
  • To qualify, a student must have demonstrated financial need (normally this means they must be receiving need-based financial aid at Trinity).
  • Students must apply in the junior year (i.e., this year’s applicants should be students who will graduate in 2008-09).
  • Candidates must be U.S. citizens.
  • Candidates must “have demonstrated superior standards of intellectual ability, scholastic achievement and personal promise” during their undergraduate career.  To be considered to be Trinity’s nominee, candidates should have a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or above.
     

JACK KENT COOKE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP
www.jackkentcookefoundation.org

Faculty Sponsor
:  Dr. Judith Fisher, Department of English

Summary:

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Graduate Scholarship Program will award approximately 30 scholarships to college seniors or recent graduates to attend graduate programs in Spring 2008. Any graduate program, including professional programs such as law school or MAT, is eligible.   The scholarship awards will provide funding for tuition, room and board, books, and other required fees for the length of the graduate degree program, up to six years.  The amount and duration of awards will vary by student, based on the cost of attendance and length of the program as well as other scholarships or grants received. The maximum award per student is $50,000 per year.  Information about the scholarship and the appropriate application forms is available on the Foundation website in November, 2007.

Requirements:

If you are able to answer yes to all four of the following questions, you are eligible to be considered for nomination by your undergraduate university or college for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Graduate Scholarship Program.

Who is Eligible?

  • College Seniors or graduates from May 2007

  • Internal deadline for Trinity students is April 1, 2008

  • Accepted into a graduate degree program to begin Fall 2007 or by March 15, 2007 application deadline

  • Cumulative GPA 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale

 

Note:  Although the application deadline is March 15, the foundation will be accepting letters of acceptance from graduate schools through April and May.  Evidence of acceptance is not required at the time you apply for the scholars

FULBRIGHT
www.iie.org/fulbright

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Sarah Pinnock, Department of Religion

Summary:

The U.S. Government sponsored Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides future American leaders with unparalleled opportunities to study and conduct research in other nations.  Fulbright student grants aim to increase mutual understanding among nations through educational and cultural exchange while serving as a catalyst for long-term leadership development.  The U.S. Student Program awards approximately 1,000 grants annually and currently operates in over 140 countries worldwide.  Fulbright full grants generally provide funding for round-trip travel, maintenance for one academic year, health and accident insurance and full or partial tuition, when appropriate.  Fulbright travel-only grants are also available to limited countries.

The Fulbright program also provides teaching grants overseas to new graduates that are like “typical” Fulbright fellowships but require half-time English teaching in a wide variety of countries around the world.  Applicants for “English Teaching Assistant” Fulbrights propose to spend the other half of their time learning about the country in which they are placed.  These assignments require ability to teach English and work with secondary school students essential as assistants to regular local English faculty, and an outline of a subject of study.  The timeline and process for the application is the same as for the “typical” research fellowship application.  Campus deadline is September 30 of the senior year, and students are encouraged to explore Fulbright possibilities in their junior year.

Requirements:

  • Must be U.S. citizen at the time of application and hold a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent by the beginning of the grant.
  • For research proposals: a project that is solidly grounded in undergraduate training and is aimed at laying the foundation for further advanced work in a graduate program.
  • For Fulbright teaching assistantships (only in certain countries—see the website): willingness to work with a local co-teacher to teach English in secondary schools while also carrying out a limited program of research and/or language training related to the host country.

 

GATES CAMBRIDGE SCHOLARSHIP
www.gates.scholarships.cam.ac.uk

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Carl Leafstedt, Department of Music

Summary:

The Gates Cambridge Scholarships are relatively recent in origin.  In 2000, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation gave a start-up grant of $210 million to Cambridge University to endow a new scholarship program based loosely on the model of the Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford.  In just a few short years the Gates Scholarships have become coveted achievements and vehicles for future success by students worldwide.  The program's purpose is to allow students to pursue graduate study at Cambridge University, one of Europe's most celebrated and historic institutions.  In recent years the program has funded approximately 230 students at any given time; each year they seek to add another 100, mostly for Masters-level studies in any one of Cambridge's many graduate programs.  About 40 students a year are selected from the USA.  The program is broadly international in scope. 

Requirements:

Some idea of the criteria may be gained from the following statement from the program's website: "In selecting Gates Cambridge Scholars, the Trust looks for students of exceptional academic achievement and scholarly promise for whom advanced study at Cambridge would be particularly appropriate. The Trust expects a good match to be made between the applicant's qualifications and aspirations and what Cambridge has to offer. Successful applicants will have the ability to make a significant contribution to their discipline while in Cambridge, with a strong aptitude for research, analysis and a creative approach to defining and solving problems."  See www.gates.scholarships.cam.ac.uk for current program information. 

These scholarships are highly competitive.  If selected, Gates Cambridge Scholars each receive a financial package that covers all tuition, fees, housing, and a "discretionary allowance" of approx. $4,000.  One roundtrip airfare to and from England is automatically covered.  Selection criteria are broad, and include leadership potential, intellectual ability, and a desire to use your skills "to improve the lives of others" worldwide. 

What is the application process?  Because the scholarships are funded through Cambridge University, students must approach this program by going through the normal application process at the university.  Typically, students will apply for a 1-year Masters degree or to a Ph.D. program of their choice.  Trinity students will ordinarily apply in the fall of their senior year.  You may also apply if you're a year or two out of college.  Any area of study is eligible.  Application deadlines fall in mid-October of each year.  Once you get accepted into Cambridge, you will get short-listed for an interview with the US branch of the Gates Scholarship selection committee.  In February of your senior year, you fly out to the East Coast for an interview. 

A list of current recipients is available on the program website.

 

GOLDWATER SCHOLARSHIP
www.act.org/goldwater

 

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Peter Kelly-Zion, Department of Engineering Science

Summary:

The goals of the scholarship program are to foster and encourage excellence in mathematics, the natural sciences, and engineering.  Arising from this goal is the desire to protect U.S. leadership in science and technology by educating and training new generations equipped to meet ever-increasing challenges. 

The Goldwater Foundation seeks to support undergraduate students with a strong commitment to a career in mathematics, the natural sciences, computer science and/or engineering.  Promising candidates show intellectual intensity in these fields and have the potential for significant future contribution.  Many candidates have had the opportunity to participate in research or have demonstrated their intellectual curiosity in other meaningful ways, such as internships or lab assistantships.

The purpose of the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation, as stated in the enabling legislation, is to alleviate a critical current and future shortage of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers. A more realistic statement of the purpose, in today's terms, is to provide a continuing source of highly qualified individuals to those fields of academic study and research.

The Foundation is supported by the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Fund which has been established in the Treasury of the United States. Funding for awards and administrative expenses derives from interest on the Trust Fund, invested in U.S. securities.

Requirements: 

  • Sophomore or juniors apply in fall
  • Top 25% of class (overall 3.5 GPA or better to be competitive)
  • Be committed to pursuing a career in natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, or engineering
  • Pre-Meds eligible only if they plan a research career rather than a career in private practice
  • US citizen or resident alien

MARSHALL SCHOLARSHIP
www.marshallscholarship.org

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Andrew Kania, Department of Philosophy

Summary:

Established by the British Parliament in 1953 to commemorate the Marshall Plan, and to foster personal and long-lasting ties between American leaders and the United Kingdom.

Up to 40 scholarships awarded each year for two years of graduate study at a British university.  Awards cover virtually all expenses, and are distributed across 8 regions of the U.S.  (approximately 5 are available to students in the mid-southwest region). *Highly competitive.

Requirements: 

  • U.S. Citizen (at time of application)
  • Hold a degree from an accredited 4 year college or university in the U.S. (by the time the scholarship is awarded)
  • GPA of 3.7 or higher
  • Graduated within 18 months of submission of application

Additional Requirements: 

  • A record of leadership and initiative outside the classroom
  • A clear vision of educational and professional goals
  • Knowledge of the programs to be pursued in the U.K., and contact with the supervisors of those programs
  • The endorsement of your college or university

Required Timetable:

  • Spring Semester: Interested students should seek endorsement from two of their professors, and then meet with faculty advisor regarding the expectations and procedures for applying.
  • May: Research UK programs, contact the relevant professors there, and produce a select bibliography of works to read over the summer.  Put together curriculum vitae.
  • June: Contact chosen recommenders; explain the scholarship to them and find out if they can write a letter by the end of the summer.  Create your online account at the Marshall website.  Decide which UK programs to apply for.
  • July 1: Submit first draft of personal statement and program of study.
  • July 15: Second draft.
  • July 30: Third draft.
  • August 1: Request transcripts to be sent from Registrar and contact recommenders again.
  • August 15: Fourth draft (if necessary).
  • August 30: Final draft.
  • September 5: Submit completed application to Marshall website.
  • September 10: Scholarship Committee decides whether or not to endorse application.
  • September 30: Scholarship Advisor submits University’s endorsement of application.


RHODES SCHOLARSHIP
www.rhodesscholar.org

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Vicki Aarons, Department of English

Summary:

Proven intellectual and academic quality of a high standard is the first quality required of applicants.  Beyond academic distinction, however, candidates will also be required to show integrity of character, interest in and respect for their fellow beings, the ability to lead, and the energy to use their talents to the full.  The intellectual standard sought is very high.  It is unlikely that a candidate will be successful unless he or she is sufficiently able academically to be admitted to one of America’s most selective graduate schools. 

Participation in organized sports is not essential if applicants are able to demonstrate in other ways the physical vigor which will enable Rhodes Scholars to make an effective contribution to the world around them. 

Requirements:

  • Literary and scholastic attainments
  • Energy to use one’s talents to the full, as exemplified by fondness for and success in sports
  • Truth, courage, devotion to duty, sympathy for and protection of the weak, kindliness, unselfishness and fellowship
  • Moral force of character and instincts to lead, and to take an interest in one’s fellow beings.

Additional (Trinity) Requirements:

The description above comes directly from the Rhodes Scholarship Trust.  Interested Trinity students must meet with the Institutional Representative no later than March 15 of the year when they plan to apply, usually during their junior year.  Those studying abroad during that semester must make alternate arrangements in advance of their departure.  Although the final application deadline is in early October, students must adhere to a strict timetable the previous spring to receive the required institutional endorsement from Trinity.  Without this endorsement, a candidate cannot proceed; last-minute applications will not be reviewed by the Major Scholarships and Fellowships Committee.  A complete draft of the required 1,000-word essay must be submitted in the spring; it is necessary to develop a very specific program of studies at Oxford.  Those seeking to apply as seniors for the competition following their graduation should check the Rhodes website for additional age and other requirements 

Trinity students who are invited to interviews have GPAs in the 3.9 range, as well as extraordinary records of leadership and service.  This is an extremely competitive process that demands a commitment to advance and sustained preparation. 

SOROS NEW AMERICAN
www.pdsoros.org


Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. David Spener, Department of Sociology and Anthropology

Summary:

The Soros Fellowships for New Americans provide support for up to two years of graduate study in any subject anywhere in the United States.  The Program has been established in recognition of the contributions immigrants and their children have made to American life and in gratitude for the opportunities the United States has afforded the donors and their family.  It is open to individuals who retain loyalty and a sense of commitment to their country of origin as well as to the United States, but it is intended to support individuals who will continue to regard the United States as their principal residence and focus of national identity.  The Fellowship provides $20,000 maintenance and half tuition wherever the Fellow attends.   Fellowships are quite competitive—800 applications were received in the most recent round.  Of these, eighty-four were interviewed by a selection panel of distinguished New Americans and thirty were chosen as fellows. The application deadline is November 1, 2007 and the announcement of recipients will be made in February 2008.

Requirements:

  • Applicants must be “New Americans,” i.e., they must be either legal “resident aliens” in the United States, or naturalized citizens of the United States, or the children of two parents who are both naturalized citizens.
  • Applicants must either have a bachelor’s degree or be in their final year of undergraduate study.  Applications will be accepted from individuals who are already enrolled in a graduate degree program provided that they are in the first or second year of the program.  Students who have already completed two or more years of graduate study after receiving their bachelor’s degree are not eligible to apply.
  • Applicants must not have been born before November 1, 1976, i.e., they must be 30 years of age or less on the date of the application deadline.
  • Candidates must show evidence of at least two of the following three attributes: 1) creativity, originality, and initiative in any area of their lives; 2) a capacity for accomplishment, demonstrated through activity that has required drive and sustained effort; and 3) a demonstrated commitment to the values expressed in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.


TRUMAN SCHOLARSHIP
www.Truman.gov

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. Tucker Gibson, Department of Political Science

Summary:

The Truman Scholarship provides “up to $30,000 in funding to students pursuing graduate degrees in public service fields.” Students must be college juniors at the time of selection.

Eligibility:

  • Junior at the time of selection
  • U.S. citizen (or a U.S. National from a Pacific Island) or anticipate receiving citizenship by the date the scholarship is awarded.
  • Plans to pursue an advanced degree to prepare for a career in public service.
  • A commitment of three years of public service.
  • A record of community service.
  • A strong academic record in “a sufficiently strong curriculum to gain admittance to a first rate graduate institution.
  • An expressed and demonstrated interest and commitment to serving as a “change agent.”
  • Completion of application which includes the analysis of a policy issues related to career interests.
  • Nominated by Trinity University.

Anticipated Awards in 2008:  65-70 Scholarships
Additional information
: Harry S. Truman Foundation website
Time to get started
:   Immediately
Competition:   Approximately 600 applicants nation wide
Applications due at the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation
: by February 5, 2008

MORRIS K. UDALL SCHOLARSHIP
www.udall.gov

Faculty Sponsor:  Dr. David O. Ribble, Department of Biology

Summary:

Sophomores and Juniors interested in professional careers in environmental issues are eligible to apply for scholarships.  The Program is also open to Native Americans and Alaska Natives interested in health care and tribal policy.  Up to $5,000.00 will be awarded to approximately 80 scholars.

Requirements:

  • Strong commitment to improving or preserving the environment
  • Potential for significant future contribution in chosen field
  • For Native Americans or Alaska Natives, a strong commitment to healthcare for tribal public policy.

Application materials include a nominee information form, nominee essay, three independent evaluations, official transcript, and nominee survey.

Application deadline in early February.  Please contact Dr. David O. Ribble, Udall Faculty Representative, Department of Biology, Trinity University.

                                 General Scholarships / Fellowships


Graduate Fellowships in the Humanities
Faculty Sponsor:
None
Point of Contact:
Dr. Sheryl Tynes, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs 

Summary:

American Graduate Fellowships support doctoral study in the humanities by graduates of small and mid-sized, private liberal arts colleges and universities. Two fellowships, worth up to $50,000 each and renewable for a second year, will be awarded annually. Applicants must be graduating seniors from an eligible undergraduate institution who plan to enroll in a doctoral program during the subsequent academic year. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens. Awards can be used to fund graduate study in four broad fields -- history, philosophy, languages and literature, and the fine arts -- at any of 23 leading private research universities in the US, UK, and Ireland. Complete information about the fellowships, including application forms and details about student eligibility, can be found online at http://www.cic.edu/projects_services/grants/americangrad.asp.  The application deadline is October 15, 2007, for graduate enrollments beginning in fall 2008. Applications must be submitted by mail.

Fellowship Deadline: 2007-15-10
Date Submitted: 2006-09-01
Announcement ID: 152505

Sarah Stoycos
Program Officer
Council of Independent Colleges
One Dupont Circle, Suite 320
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 466-7230
Email: americangrad@cic.nche.edu
Visit the website at http://www.cic.edu/projects_services/grants/americangrad.asp

 

GEORGE J. MITCHELL SCHOLARSHIP
www.us-irelandalliance.org/

Faculty Sponsor:  None
Point of Contact:  Dr. Sheryl Tynes, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs

Applications for the 2008-2009 George J. Mitchell Scholarships are now available online at the US-Ireland alliance website noted above or directly through the following link:  http://us-irelandalliance.org/mitchellscholarships/

All applications must be received no later than midnight, EST, October 5, 2007.  There is no paper application for this award.  The scholarships are named to honor former Senator George Mitchell's pivotal contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process.  As such, we are seeking candidates who have achieved academic excellence, demonstrated leadership in their fields and sustained commitment to public or community service.  They must be 18 or over but not yet 30 on October 1, 2007.  These scholarships support one year of postgraduate study in any discipline offered at an institution of higher learning in Ireland or Northern Ireland.  The Mitchell Scholarship provides tuition, housing, a living expense stipend and international travel.  Normally, 12 scholarships are awarded each year.  For more information about the Mitchell Scholarship selection process, profiles of past and current scholars, and the Irish university system, please go to the US-Ireland Alliance website.

If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail Mary Lou Hartman at hartman@us-irelandalliance.org or call her at (703) 841-5843.

Mary Lou Hartman
Director, George J. Mitchell Scholarships
US-Ireland Alliance
2800 Clarendon Boulevard, Suite 502
Arlington, Virginia 2220


For Further Information on Scholarships and Fellowships:

Contact Dr. Sheryl R. Tynes, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Northrup Hall 410, 999-8201.