What is a Gulf Coast issue?
For the Gulf Scholars Program, any issue that is affected by having a location along the Gulf Coast is considered a “Gulf issue.” Our geographic area is broad – encompassing every Gulf Coast state. The entire state of Alabama and other Gulf Coast States (Florida, Texas, Mississippi, etc.), can experience Gulf Coast issues, so the Gulf Scholars Program considers a Gulf issue to extend to any Gulf state. We have community partners as far north as Huntsville, Alabama, and other Gulf Coast states like Florida and Mississippi.
Who should apply to become a Gulf Scholar?
The Gulf Scholars Program welcomes students in all majors. Sustainability needs every discipline to be effective and we are looking for a passionate and dedicated group of students to join our interdisciplinary team.
Are you….
- An artist who challenges society with new ideas?
- An English or journalism major who writes about sustainability?
- A chemistry or Biology major who develops new water testing methods?
- An architecture, building science, or environmental design major who designs green buildings and sustainable communities?
- An human sciences major who uses sustainable materials and methods?
- A natural resources major who works to save sensitive species?
- A sociology or social work major who works for social and environmental justice?
- An education major who believes in green schools and sustainable and environmental education?
- An engineering major who develops new technologies to build a sustainable future?
- A business major who develops sustainable models for business and finance?
- A music or theatre major who challenges people to dream big about sustainability?
- A political science or law and justice major who wants to work in environmental policy or litigation?
- Or a student from any other discipline who wants to create a better and more sustainable world for future generations?
If so, the Gulf Scholars Program may be for you! The Gulf Scholars Program will engage all these fields, and more, to work together to solve society’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
What are the benefits of Becoming a Gulf Scholar?
Students who become Gulf Scholars—first and foremost—will learn to become change agents for sustainability. You will learn to develop your inner sustainability ethic and personal drive, which is the foundation for creating real change. You will take classes that address sustainability issues in different fields. You will also work with a close peer student group from across campus, and attend social events, educational programs, volunteer opportunities, field trips and more. You will be paired with a community partner who is committed to helping you achieve your career goals and will guide you through your final project. You will make important professional and personal connections that will help you achieve success in your career in the future.
Gulf Scholars will be recognized nationally by the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine. This prestigious national recognition will help students advance their career goals and set them apart from other students on the job market. Students who complete the program will earn a certificate as a Gulf Scholar from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Students will also receive an honor cord at graduation. All classes in the Gulf Scholars Program count toward the Minor in Sustainability Studies, so students can earn the minor at Auburn while they earn the Gulf Scholars certificate from the National Academies. GSP classes may apply to other campus programs and degrees (talk to your academic advisor). Students interested in earning the Minor in Sustainability Studies should contact our academic advisor Ross Blair, rrb0015@auburn.edu.
Benefits of Becoming an Auburn Gulf Scholar
- Earn National Prestigious Recognition from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine
- Earn the Gulf Scholars Certificate from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine
- Earn the Minor in Sustainability Studies from Auburn
- Join a fun and engaging interdisciplinary peer cohort group
- Be paired with a community partner in the Southeast who can help you advance your career and help with future employment
- Build your resume
- Earn an honor cord for graduation
- Attend free field trips and weekend excursions with friends, colleagues, and community members
- Take exciting and cutting-edge classes from great faculty
- Learn how to engage diverse Gulf Coast communities on challenging sustainability topics.
- Make a real difference for people in Alabama and other Southern states
- Become a change agent for sustainability
Will I receive funding to become a Gulf Scholar?
Each Auburn Gulf Scholar will receive a $2,000 scholarship to complete the Gulf Scholars Program plus an additional $500 for travel. Additional funding for travel to the Gulf Scholars Conference in Texas each spring is available. Southern Union Community College students will receive the funding at Auburn, additional funding at SUSCC, and tuition for the Gulf Scholars class at SUSCC. All field trips and activities will be free.