Each spring, the Political Science Department gives the Political Science Alumni Outstanding Senior Award to a Political Science major graduating that academic year. In addition, two Finalists are selected by the awards committee from among the short list of Semi-Finalists interviewed for the recognition. The winners are graduating seniors who best exemplify the qualities associated with Political Science Alumni. In particular, the awards committee typically takes into account original research, academic excellence, political and governmental engagement, leadership, and service.
Nominees must be seniors (at least 90 credit hours completed), have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better, and they must exhibit good moral character and service to the University or to the larger community. They must have graduated or plan to graduate no later than August of the application year.
Students who nominate themselves should submit a resume, and also might wish to submit an optional statement that provides:
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Basic biographical and educational data
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Career goals and plans for the future
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Activity in student organizations; offices held; service to the University of Kentucky or the university community
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Academic, service or other honors won as an undergraduate
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Activities or service in the community (Lexington or your hometown) during the period while an undergraduate
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Employment while an undergraduate
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Other achievements or activities of interest while an undergraduate
The monetary award will be presented at the Political Science Department's annual dinner in the spring. The department generally awards $250 to the winner and $100 each to two runners-up. The Undergraduate Program Committee of the Political Science Department will determine the winner(s) of this award.
To apply for this award, materials should be sent to psawards@uky.edu by April 10. Please write “PS Outstanding Senior” in the subject line.