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Future “change-agents” whose bottom-line is making a difference, not making a dollar. The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation is a federal memorial to the 33rd U.S. president founded in 1977

JUNIORS APPLY: Top 25% of class, 3.6+ GPA, leadership & service record, U.S. citizen, communication skills, interested in public service career: government, NGO, education, non-profit, advocacy. Conservation, economics, education, environmental management/protection, government, human resources, international relations, law, non-profit management, political science, public administration/health/policy, social services/work, technology policy, etc.

75 to 80 Juniors Awarded (from 700 nominees = 11% chance) up to $26,000 of which $2,000 is paid in senior year and $24,000 for the first two years of graduate school at $12,000 per year. Award also includes federal internship & job opportunities, leadership training, graduate school & career counseling, priority admission & financial aid at premier institutions. Can be used for study at an overseas university. One scholar per state plus up to 30 at-large scholars.

In addition to juniors, also invited to enquire are fall SOPHOMORES (spring sophomores should begin the application process) and FIRST-YEARS. Learn what's required to win. Become superbly PREPARED: Public service: 2 years in 2 arenas, sustained involvement: campus organizations/activities including student government, volunteer work &/or community service, government internships, advocacy/interest groups, elections &/or political campaigns for public office. Leadership record: Active leadership roles and offices held. The longer or more the better. Current events: Solid grasp of political and social issues, and the workings of government.

The most advantageous time to register for a fellowship is in the spring, starting mid February. Statistics show that those who register earlier fare far better. The deadline to register for the Truman is the end of September. Petitions to register later may be considered from students who show exceptional promise to be successful in fellowships competitions.

Maybe doing Junior Year Abroad? All the more reason to begin application as a sophomore!

MUST READ www.truman.gov to understand variations. Questions? office@truman.com.

Commitment to the Truman application process is perfect training for applying in your senior year for prestigious and lucrative fellowships such as the Rhodes, Marshall, Gates and Mitchell, as well as preparation for graduate school and other post-graduate applications. Can defer award.

Plan to begin your application straight after Spring Break of your SOPHOMORE year.

Smith may nominate up to 4 juniors who enter home state competitions. 1st round of selection held on campus. Chosen candidates become Smith nominees to the Truman Foundation that selects 200-230 finalists for invitation to 19 regional interview committees that elect scholars.

For Truman application and interview strategies from past winners, look at the Live to Learn website.