TExAS FAST Scholars Program Application

    The TExAS FAST (Texas Experiential Learning and Scholarship program for Food and Agricultural Science Training) Scholars Program is an inclusive learning community designed to provide experiential learning, scholarship, collaborative educational opportunities, and career training within the Environmental Science and Sustainability (ESS) program at OLLU. As part of the program, and the Living Learning community (LLC), scholars will receive a 2- year room and board scholarship ($8,619/year) and $1000/month stipends for 24 months. Program participation also includes two expense paid summer research experiences. This program is not designed for those interested in careers in the biomedical field. 

    Expectations 

    1. Live on campus for two academic years as part of the ESS LLC. 

    1. Participate in early move-in events & activities, including a TExAS FAST specific orientation.

    1. Participate in events throughout the semester organized by TExAS FAST. 

    1. Attend meetings with program advisors and staff monthly. 

    1. Attend program workshops and career building events.  

    1. Meet with peer mentors biweekly.

    1. Participate in a two-week Summer I experience after the freshman year. 

    1. Apply for a Summer II research experience after the sophomore year. 

    Eligibility 

    1. Been admitted to OLLU for the Fall 2025 term as a first time freshman.  

    1. Major OR minor in Environmental Science and Sustainability (ESS) and be registered as a full-time student (12 hours or more). 

    1. Be a citizen of the United States, national of the United States, alien admitted as refugees under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, or alien lawfully admitted to the U.S. for permanent residence.  

    1. Academic ability or potential demonstrated by means of an overall high school GPA of 2.5 or higher based on a 4.0 scale.  

    *Required fields
    Birthdate
    Birthdate
    Mailing Address
    Mailing Address
    Are you majoring or minoring in Environmental Science and Sustainability?
    Are you majoring or minoring in Environmental Science and Sustainability?
    Are you a citizen of the United States?
    Are you a citizen of the United States?
    If not a U.S. Citizen, are you a U.S. Permanent Resident?
    If not a U.S. Citizen, are you a U.S. Permanent Resident?
    TExAS FAST is a program designed to train students for a career in environmental science. Please provide a short personal statement explaining what interests and/or experiences you may have that make you want a career in the field of environmental science. (200 words)
    Please include a statement on how being a TExAS FAST Scholar will help you succeed in obtaining your goals (200 words).
    *All application materials must be the original work of the applicant. Use of AI, plagiarism, or any form of cheating to complete the application and its components, including essays or responses, is strictly prohibited. Any submission found to violate these guidelines will result in immediate disqualification from the application process.