PURPOSE AND PURVIEW

The Star of the West Foundation's financial support of this scholarship is intended to encourage study abroad, second language skills and foreign travel to enrich the undergraduate cadet experience and exposure to opportunities in the global economy. The International Summer Scholarship is a one-time grant of up to $7,500.

This grant is intended to support the academic enrichment of cadets whose project proposals present a clear connection between the summer experience and their goals after graduation. Special consideration is accorded to applicants pursuing highly competitive awards for graduate study, such as Fulbright, Marshall, Rhodes, or Truman scholarships. Although preference is given to those who have not received an award, particularly distinguished previous recipients may be awarded a second or third grant. Preference will also be given to students who have not had an international experience. Recipients are required to file a report (and a photo) on their activities and a detailed listing of expenditures with receipts for the Star of the West Board of Directors.

Although formal programs in any field offered by foreign universities are the basis for most applications, independent study projects (see below) and independent travel are also encouraged and funded. In non-English speaking countries, basic language knowledge is required. Programs to enhance language skills through courses beyond the 200-level are encouraged. Award of scholarships is based on the merit of the proposed field of study and foreign experience as it pertains to the cadet's major and career goals, Citadel academic record and over-all cadet activities involvement. Summer scholars are expected to have a substantial experience; awards of fewer than three weeks are discouraged and rare. Generally speaking, the longer the duration the better. If you are conducting an independent study, it must be approved by a department and carry a 3- hour course equivalent for credit. If you have any questions about a research award, please contact Professor Sparks.

Eligible for the Star of the West International Summer Scholarship are current cadet freshmen, sophomores, and juniors posting a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher and conduct proficient. Applicants must submit online: a narrative proposal, detailed budget, and two letters of recommendation both of which must come from a Citadel faculty member. Note: a faculty member cannot write a letter of recommendation if that applicant is going on a program led by that faculty member!
A faculty member acting as the supervisor for an independent research study may write a letter of recommendation for the applicant they will be supervising. An additional letter (optional) may come from a reference off-campus.
Only full-time cadets are eligible for this award.

APPLICATION TIMELINES FOR SUMMER 2016:

There is a two-round application process:

Early decision - the early decision application cycle is closed. If you submitted an unsuccessful application during this cycle, your application will be held and reconsidered with spring applications. Applicants are encouraged to revise their applications before the spring deadline; to discuss revisions, contact the Office of Fellowships.

Spring decision - the spring application cycle is open. The deadline for receipt of all application materials is 5:00 pm on Friday, 19 February 2016. Applicants should expect decision notifications in early March.