The University Scholars Program

The University Scholars Program presents University of Florida undergraduates with the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors while pursuing fundamental research, exploring scholarly inquiry, and developing new knowledge. University Scholars will receive a $2500 research stipend (two payments with $1,500 in May and $1,000 in September). Scholars also have the opportunity to publish their work in UF's on-line Journal of Undergraduate Research, and to present their research in the University Scholars Symposium.

Eligibility and Nominations

Applicants must have at least one more year of undergraduate studies remaining and an overall GPA of 3.00 or better. Each department may forward up to three individual student projects in rank order. For the 2008-09 competition, the student would conduct research during the summer of 2008. Selected students must register for at least one hour of Independent Study during Summer A/C. Selected students should understand that the research project would be a full-time commitment for the summer term. The research project may be completed in any 3000, 4000, or honors thesis class. During the 2008-09 academic year, each scholar will enroll for a minimum of one hour of independent study during the fall and spring terms following their funded summer research. The instructor of record for these courses will be the faculty mentor identified the previous spring. Students will be evaluated on their progress toward research goals. The College’s Office of Academic Affairs will accept nominations up to but not later than March 1, 2008. Nominations should include:

• A copy of the student's application with attached problem statement, rationale, and significance of the study. This attachment should be typed in double space format and not exceed two pages. Copies of the application can be downloaded from the University Scholars website.
• A resume, not to exceed two pages
• A copy of the student's transcript
• A letter of support from the faculty supervisor (mentor)

Selection Process

A maximum of five HHP University Scholars, distributed across the Departments of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, Health Education & Behavior and Tourism, Recreation & Sport Management will be selected.

Presentation of Research Projects

Awardees will be invited to submit a written summary of their research for possible participation in a University Scholars symposium during the Spring of 2009.

Award Ceremony for Students and Faculty

Following the Symposium, an award luncheon will be hosted by the President of the University of Florida for faculty mentors and parents of the University Scholars Program Symposium participants. In addition, all college undergraduate scholars and faculty mentors will be recognized in the College electronic newsletter and in Performance magazine.

Additional information at www.scholars.ufl.edu