Tips for All Students:
Work closely with your faculty representative (FacRep). Ask them for feedback
on your short essay answers and essay.
Articulate a career "path" or field (though not necessarily a specific profession).
Even if you don't know exactly what you want do do, be clear about what issues you want to work on and
use the application to show readers how you're preparing yourself to make an impact.
Tell a cohesive "story" beginning with the career goal statement and supported by
activities, research, jobs/internships, transcripts, letters, and the essay.
Use the short essay answers to demonstrate your commitment to environmental issues,
tribal public policy, or Native health care.
Demonstrate a desire for problem-solving or consensus-building. Convince the readers
that you're going to make a difference.
Illustrate your leadership potential. The readers will look for students who can
motivate others, bring people together, take initiative, and implement practical solutions.
Request your transcripts well in advance. Remember that you'll also need to submit
transcripts from any colleges or universities that you attended before your current school (except
for courses taken during high school).
Briefly identify and explain any activities or honors that readers are unlikely to understand.
Alert the Foundation to any unusual circumstances or hardship that may have affected your academic performance
or limited your activities.
Read widely among the speeches, legislation, and policy statements of Congressman Morris K. Udall or
Secretary of Interior Stewart L. Udall. For the essay, choose a speech or piece of legislation that clearly relates to
your interests and career goals.
Submit all necessary materials to your faculty representative by the campus deadline. Your faculty
representative must submit your complete application to the Foundation by
. Your campus will probably have an
earlier deadline.
Tips for Students Applying in the Tribal Public Policy or
Native Health Care Categories:
Clearly explain how you plan to use your education and experiences to benefit your
tribe or Native Americans in general.
Demonstrate your involvement and interest in tribal communities. You may take your
participation in cultural events, volunteer work, or other activities for granted, but all of these
activities illustrate your commitment.
Ask for a letter from a tribal leader or professional who can attest to your involvement
with your tribe or Native American organizations, in addition to letters from professors who can attest
to your academic performance and professional potential.
Read carefully the eligibility and documentation requirements for applicants in these
categories.
Ask alumni about the application process or about their
experience as a Udall Scholar.