Morris K. Udall Scholarship Program

Campus Deadline:  February 1, 2010

Terms
The Morris K. Udall Scholarship Program was created to honor Congressman Morris K. Udall and his legacy of public service. The scholarship covers eligible expenses for tuition, fees, books, and room and board, up to a maximum of $5,000. Juniors are eligible for one year of support; sophomores may be renominated during their junior year and compete for a second year of support. Approximately 75-80 scholarships are awarded each year. 

Eligibility
Awards are made to outstanding sophomores and juniors who fall into one of two groups:

1. Those who intend to pursue careers in environmental public policy; and
2. Native American and Alaska Native students who intend to pursue careers in health care or tribal public policy. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be in the top quarter of their class. 

Selection
Applicants first submit their materials to a campus committee for review in February. Cornell chooses six students as nominees to the national Udall Scholarship competition. The campus committee offers the six nominees advice on how to improve their materials for final submission.  In late February, nominees submit the final version of their applications to the national competition.

Selection decisions (both on-campus and at the national level) are based on the following criteria:

• Strong commitment to pursue a career related to improving or preserving the environment -OR- for Native American or Alaska Native candidates, a strong commitment to pursue a career in any area of health care or tribal public policy. Students should have shown such commitment through their academic program and extracurricular activities.
• Potential for significant future contribution in the student's chosen career field. Selection committees judge the student's potential by looking at performance in relevant coursework and level of contribution to public service and community activities related to the student's stated career interest.
• Academic record: Outstanding academic achievement is necessary. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required; award winners often hold a 3.5 or higher.
• Three letters of recommendation: Recommenders are asked to comment on the student's motivation and potential for a career in the chosen area, as well as academic performance. Choose recommenders who know you both academically and personally. Strong letters focus on your potential ability to make an impact on public policy and cite specific examples of maturity and initiative.
• Personal statement: This 800-word essay must focus on Congressman Udall's achievements and their significance to you and your field. The essay should clarify your own goals, show how you will pursue them, and demonstrate more than a passing acquaintance with Congressman Udall's work.