The application process is handled online and the package consists of:

• An online application form
• One recommendation form completed by a professor who knows the student well (preferably in the Sciences).  This form also asks the professor to upload a recommendation letter (signed and in official letterhead)
• The recommendation of a graduate student interested in mentoring you. (The graduate student must include your name in her/his application form)
• A resume (uploaded as pdf in the application form)
• A 500-word personal statement (uploaded as pdf in the application form)
  • Be sure to indicate:
    • Motivation to participate in the program
    • Career interest
    • Interest in pursuing an advanced degree
    • Willingness to participate in the SMARTS program workshops, meetings and other activities
• A most current unofficial transcript (uploaded as pdf in the application form)

Upon submitting the application form:

• The faculty mentor is automatically notified via email that a team of a graduate and an undergraduate student applied to be mentored by him/her through the SMARTS program
• The faculty recommender receives the link to the recommendation form via email
• The graduate student is automatically notified via email that the undergraduate student has applied to the SMARTS program

The SMARTS Committee has formulated guidelines for recommendations:

Graduate Students: The faculty mentor must complete a recommendation form and upload a recommendation letter.

Undergraduate Students: Any professor who knows the student well (preferably in the Sciences) may submit an online recommendation form and upload a recommendation letter.

*Letters of recommendation must be on University letterhead and signed.

Questions to be Addressed in Letters of Recommendation

• How long have you known the applicant and under what circumstances?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the applicant? Describe any unique skills or personal characteristics that you think will allow him/her to succeed as a STEM (graduate or undergraduate) student.
• How well does the applicant get along with faculty and peers? Describe his/her people skills and level of maturity.
• How does the applicant handle disappointing or stressful situations?
• If possible, please indicate reasons why you feel that the applicant should or should not become a SMARTS Scholar.