TExAS FAST Scholars Program Application-2026

    The TExAS FAST (Texas Experiential Learning and Scholarship program for Food and Agricultural Science Training) Scholars Program looks to create inclusive learning environments through 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 Living Learning Community (LLC), scholars will receive a 2-year room and board scholarship (~$8,619/year) and $1,000/month stipends for 24 months. Program participation also includes an expenses paid summer research and/or internship experience related to environmental sustainability.

    Expectations 

    1. Live on campus for two academic years as part of the ESS LLC (Flores Hall) 

    1. Participate in early-move in events & activities.

    1. Participate in LLC programming.

    1. Attend meetings with program advisors.

    1. Attend program workshops and career building events.  

    1. Meet biweekly with peer mentors

    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 2026 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 United States 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.
    *Important Disclaimer: The TExAS FAST program is made possible through funding from the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA). While we do not anticipate any changes, continued participation and benefits from this program are contingent upon ongoing federal support. In the event that USDA-NIFA funding is reduced or discontinued, Our Lady of the Lake University may be required to modify or terminate the program and its associated benefits.