Become a Scholar
Open to students in all programs across campus, the Sustainability Scholars program gives students a unique opportunity to explore their interests in sustainability. In addition to the 11-credit course of study and co-curricular activities, each scholar receives up to $3,000 to pursue a field-based experience. They can take a course offered by U-M, find one through another program, or create their own independent study project.
Students apply in January of their sophomore year, and begin the program the fall of their junior year. Transfer students and non-traditional or junior students may also apply as long as they will not graduate prior to December 2014. Through the program students will hone their leadership and problem-solving skills to help them think about sustainable solutions from a multi-variable systems approach.
Upon graduation, scholars receive a certificate and a notation on their transcript indicating their achievement. If you are an enthusiastic and motivated sophomore looking to connect with other like-minded students on campus, we encourage you to apply for the Graham Sustainability Scholars Program.
How to Apply
If you are interested in participating in the Graham Sustainability Scholar’s Program, then be sure to apply by the annual deadline (this past year, it was January 25, 2013). If accepted, you will be joining an exceptional cohort of students. Please click here for the Request for Proposals (RFP), and click here for the ONLINE APPLICATION.
The Sustainability Scholars program is competitive and is open to all undergraduates completing their second year at the University (sophomores, second-years with junior standing or transfer with sophomore standing). A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.25, including Fall 2012 grades, is required. Exceptional candidates with GPAs between 3.0 and 3.25 may be considered. Anyone with a GPA below 3.0 will not be considered. Students from all schools and majors are encouraged to apply.
Application Procedure
Students must submit their package online here:- A statement of no more than 500 words describing previous experience related to sustainability activities, educational and career objectives, and other information relevant to the application. The student should include a reason for applying to the program and how sustainability leadership training will enhance their future prospects.
- Name and contact information for two people, one of whom must be a U-M faculty member or someone who has taught the applicant at the college level, who will be asked by the Graham Institute to submit confidential recommendation letters. These letters WERE due by February 15, 2013.
- A brief resume or curriculum vitae describing the candidate’s:
- Educational background
- Professional experience
- Major awards and honors received
- Membership in organizations as applicable
- Outreach and volunteer efforts, especially those related to sustainability
- Transcripts of all undergraduate coursework. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. This transcript must include your Fall 2012 grades.
NOTE: All applications will be handled confidentially
For more information about program and application details, please contact Mike Shrberg, the Graham Institute’s Education Director, at mshriber at umich.edu or (734) 647-6227. For details about how to apply for the 2013 Scholars Program, please click here for the RFP.