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Academic Competitions

Click here for a listing of additional academic competitions available to UC Merced undergraduate students.


Strauss Scholarship

https://www.straussfoundation.org/

About

The Donald A. Strauss Scholarship provides a $15,000 award, consisting of a $7,000 scholarship and an $8,000 project grant. Applicants must be sophomores and juniors who will use the grant to pursue a self-initiated public service project during the year after winning the award. The project may be a new undertaking or an extension of an existing project. The Strauss Foundation annually awards the scholarship to students from twenty-two eligible California institutions, including UC Merced.

Events & Deadlines

Tuesday, October 29th 2024, 4:00 pm-5:00 pm: Strauss Foundation Scholarship Webinar.

Monday, January 27th, 2025: Complete Applications Due

Friday & Saturday, April 4th & 5th, 2025: Annual Meeting (Required for 2024-2025 Scholars)

Eligibility

  • full-time sophomore or junior
  • have a GPA in the upper third of class
  • have outstanding leadership potential
  • have a passion for social change, public service or social entrepreneurship 

Application

Strauss Deadline: Monday, January 27th, 2025

  1. Application Summary
  2. Resume
    • One page that includes current and past public service 
  3. Personal Essay
    • One page that explains why your project is meaningful to you, relevant accomplishments, and background
  4. Project Proposal
    • Four pages, including budget and timeline
  5. Transcripts from all colleges attended; copies are acceptable
  6. Acceptance Agreement (signed)
  7. Letters of Recommendation (two) and Letter of Support

Resources

More information and support can also be found from our wonderful Community Engagement Center here.

General questions/inquiries can be emailed to Sunni Nelson, Honors Program Coordinator: snelson4@ucmerced.edu