Eligibility Requirements
The Rose Hills Summer Scholarships at UC Berkeley provide a fantastic opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in independent research projects over the summer. To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must be matriculating students at UC Berkeley and currently enrolled in the College of Letters and Science (L&S). Additionally, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 at UC Berkeley and must be classified as juniors or seniors according to their Cal Central profile. Importantly, the research proposal must be for an independent project, not one supporting a faculty member’s research.
Commitment to Full-Time Research
Applicants must commit to dedicating themselves to full-time research for a minimum of eight weeks during the summer. This full-time commitment ensures that students can immerse themselves in their projects, allowing for a thorough exploration of their research questions. The requirement for full-time dedication underscores the program’s emphasis on intensive, focused research experiences.
Faculty Mentorship
A crucial component of the Rose Hills Summer Scholarships is the support of a UC Berkeley faculty member. Applicants must secure the full support of a faculty member who will mentor their project. This mentorship provides valuable guidance and expertise, helping students develop and refine their research proposals and methodologies. Faculty mentors play a pivotal role in the success of the research projects, offering insights and advice throughout the research process.
Application Process
The application process for the Rose Hills Summer Scholarships is now live, and students can access the application portal. The same application form is used for the SURF L&S and Haas Scholars programs, streamlining the application process for students interested in multiple funding opportunities. To apply, students must submit a well-written and compelling research proposal for their independent project. This proposal should clearly outline the research question, methodology, and significance of the project.
Faculty Support Letter
In addition to the research proposal, applicants must provide a letter of support from their faculty mentor. This letter should affirm the mentor’s commitment to guiding the student through their research project and highlight the student’s preparedness and potential for conducting the proposed research. The faculty support letter is a critical component of the application, as it demonstrates the student’s access to expert guidance and mentorship.
Application Deadline
Students must ensure that their applications are submitted by the deadline: 11:59 AM (Pacific Time) on Friday, March 1, 2024. It is crucial to adhere to this deadline, as late applications will not be considered. Early preparation and timely submission of the application materials will help avoid last-minute issues and ensure that applications are complete and well-prepared.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee for the Rose Hills Summer Scholarships will evaluate applications based on several criteria. Successful applicants will present an innovative research question that is relevant to their discipline. Additionally, the research plan must be well-conceived and feasible, demonstrating the student’s ability to complete the project within the summer timeframe. Clear evidence of faculty support for the project is also essential, as it indicates that the student has the necessary mentorship and resources to succeed.
Benefits of the Scholarship
Recipients of the Rose Hills Summer Scholarships will not only receive funding for their research projects but also participate in small-group meetings and workshops. These meetings and workshops are designed to build community among the fellows and develop their research-related skills. This additional support enhances the overall research experience, providing opportunities for networking, skill development, and peer collaboration.
Keys to a Successful Application
To maximize their chances of receiving the Rose Hills Summer Scholarship, applicants should work closely with their faculty mentors to develop a strong research proposal. Ensuring that the proposal is clear, compelling, and well-supported by evidence and methodology is essential. Additionally, securing a detailed and supportive letter from the faculty mentor can significantly strengthen the application. By adhering to the eligibility requirements, preparing a thorough application, and submitting by the March 1st deadline, students can position themselves for success in the Rose Hills Summer Scholarships program.