The Northern California Chapter of the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (NorCal URISA) is now receiving applications for our Student Scholarship Program. This program is designed to award college students in any field or discipline (Geography, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Urban Studies, Planning, Transportation, Oceanography, Geology, Social Sciences, etc.) who are interested in pursuing a career utilizing GIS.

Scholarship Amount:

The NorCal Chapter has earmarked $1000 for 2012 scholarship. Monies may be distributed as a single or multiple awards. The scholarship will be provided as a reimbursement for educational expenses as specified by the IRS for 501 c(3) non-profit organizations.

Eligibility:

• Current student (full or part-time) working towards a degree, with proof of current enrollment in an accredited college or university in NorCal URISA’s membership region. (See NorCal URISA website for service area)
• Prior completion of courses in the area of Geographic Information Systems.
• Grade point average of “B” (3.0) or higher in GIS coursework; Total GPA will be considered as well.
• Current member or related to a member of (Regular or Student) of Northern California Chapter of URISA.

Application Deadline:

All applications must be received by November 12th. Please mail to:

Northern California Chapter of URISA
Scholarship Program
P.O. Box 660602
Sacramento, CA 95866-0602

All questions regarding the Scholarship Program may be directed to the Scholarship Committee (board@norcalurisa.org). A panel of GIS educators and/or professionals will judge the applications. The scholarship chair will select panel members from academia, public agencies, and private organizations.

Notification of Award:

The President of the Northern California Chapter of URISA will notify applicants in writing by December 6th.

Selection Criteria:

• Evidence of a balanced academic training with GIS knowledge and skills.
• Enthusiasm and commitment to the goals of utilizing GIS within a profession.
• Willingness to enhance GIS skills through community and professional activities.
• Evidence of academic faculty support.

Application Procedure:

All applications for the Scholarship Program must be submitted on the Northern California Chapter of URISA Student Scholarship Application Form. Photocopies of the applications are acceptable. Evaluation will be based on the documentation submitted as well as on letters of reference. A combination of factors will be assigned points of value totaling 100 that will determine the recipient(s) of the scholarship(s). The point values are indicated in parentheses below. Individuals scoring less than 70% will not be considered.

The following items are REQUIRED:

• Completed Application Form - (click here for current application)
• Official Copy of School Transcript – It is anticipated that the transcript would demonstrate the applicant’s efforts in acquiring GIS knowledge/skills. GPA & GIS courses. (maximum 35 points)
• Two Letters of Reference – At least one from a faculty member who is familiar with the applicant’s efforts to obtain and apply GIS skills currently as well as in their chosen profession/career. Please list names, titles, and phone numbers of the individuals providing the reference on the application form and attach the letters of reference to the latter. (maximum 25 points)
• Statement from Applicant -  Maximum of two pages (typed, single spaced) describing the applicants area of interest in GIS, the efforts devoted towards learning GIS skills, how GIS has been utilized in the current program of study, and a clear indication of how the applicant intends to apply those skills in their profession/career. (maximum 25 points)
• Other Involvement – In one or more separate paragraphs sub-titled “Other Involvement”, please include information such as 1) Community and school involvement; 2) Professional development such as details on internships served; 3) Professional involvement: list professional organizations you are involved with, years of involvement, positions held and participation on committees, task forces and other related activities; 4) Details of awards and honors received, etc. Please include references with contact phone numbers to support this information. (maximum 15 points)