PROFESSIONAL SOIL SCIENTISTS ASSOCIATION OF TEXAS

ANNOUNCEMENT OF 2008 SCHOLARSHIP

· OBJECTIVE

The scholarship is intended to recognize and support an outstanding undergraduate student studying to become a soil scientist at a college or university in Texas and to promote interest in careers in soil science.

· SPONSOR

Professional Soil Scientists Association of Texas (PSSAT).

· ELIGIBILITY

At the time of application, the student must be enrolled in a college or university in Texas, and be a sophomore, junior, or senior in a program of study that can lead to a career as a soil scientist. The student must be an undergraduate in good standing at the time the scholarship is awarded. Students seeking a second BS, BA, or equivalent degree are not eligible. The minimum completed course work necessary for consideration includes 3 semester hours in soil science and 12 semester hours in the biological, physical, or earth sciences that support soil science.

· SELECTION CRITERIA

Scholarship

Includes relevance of course work to a career in soil science, difficulty and diversity of courses taken, grade point ratio, honors and awards for scholarship, and membership in honor societies.

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

Participation in recognized clubs and organizations, soil judging teams and other judging teams, elected offices, committees, projects, and similar endeavors. Also honors and awards for leadership and extracurricular activities.

Personal Traits

Evidence of personal traits such as character, ethics, dependability, a can-do spirit, and a strong work ethic. Also includes work experience and honors, awards, or activities that reflect personal traits. These should be supported by letters of reference.

· AMOUNT

One $1,500 scholarship will be awarded for the 2007-2008 school year.

· APPLICATION

Applicants must submit the following materials to the chairman of the PSSAT Scholarship Committee by December 21, 2007. This is an absolute deadline. Please note - this date is between semesters.

1) Completed application form (click for the application form)

2) Brief resume

3) Two letters of recommendation (to be mailed with the application, but in a separate envelope)

4) A copy of a current official transcript

5) A letter addressing your background, educational programs, leadership qualities, and career objectives.

Application forms and more detailed information concerning the scholarship may be obtained by contacting: (by letter, telephone or e-mail: John.Sackett_AT_tx.usda.gov). Note: substitute _AT_ with @

______________________________

John L. Sackett, Chairman, (Phone 936--346-4931)

PSSAT Scholarship Committee

5234 FM 2826

Robstown, Texas 78380