Eligibility
Employees of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) participants are not eligible to apply for or receive this scholarship.
To be eligible for the program, students must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen, or be in the final stages of the application process for U.S. citizenship, and will attain citizenship within a year of being accepted to the program;
- Be in good academic standing with at minimum 2.75 GPA based on a 4.0 scale at an accredited college or university in the United States;
- Willingness to relocate upon graduation (Mobility Agreement will be signed upon selection);
- Have a strong interest in a career in public service with the USDA;
- Exhibit leadership and community involvement;
- Be intellectually curious;
- Attend a mandatory orientation in Washington, DC;
- Meet academic and class level requirements of the scholarship.
ORIENTATION
Scholars participate in a one-week mandatory orientation in Washington, DC from July 31 to August 5, 2011. The orientation facilitates the transition from school to work, focuses students on the responsibility of public service and Federal Government regulations, enhances leadership skills, and fosters a sense of camaraderie. USDA covers costs associated with travel, lodging, and meals.
