Undergraduate awards

Award Description
The Department of Integrative Biology has a long history of proudly honoring its most talented students with undergraduate awards.  The Department is pleased to offer these awards annually to sophomores, juniors, and seniors majoring in Biological Science, Physiology or Zoology at OSU.  The awards provide recognition among students, staff, and faculty in the Department, enhancement of a student’s credentials, and modest financial support of the student’s education.
Currently the Department of Integrative Biology offers at least 8 awards to our undergraduate students:

  • The Dr. G. Michael Steelman Endowed Scholarship
  • The Edwin Chappabitty Jr. M.D. Scholarship (more than one may be given each year)
  • Bryan P. Glass Student Scholarship/Fellowship
  • Dr. Ray Dixon Scholarship in Rural Health
  • Outstanding Seniors majoring in Biological Science, Zoology, and Physiology
  • Outstanding Junior
  • Outstanding Sophomore

The requirements for each award can be found in the application. Descriptions can be found here.

 

Click here to apply for Department of Integrative Biology undergraduate awards.

 

Application
Applications for these awards are  available in November and must be submitted in January each year.  Applicants are required to complete the form, provide a copy of his/her CV, write an essay, and request two letters of recommendation.  Descriptions of these items can be found in the application form.


Selection Criteria
Recipients are selected using the criteria as described below, listed in order of importance, number one being most influential.  
1) Academic Excellence - indicated by GPA and completion of Integrative Biology’s most challenging courses
2) Participation in the Scholarship of Discovery - indicated by involvement in meaningful and productive research experiences and letters of recommendation
3) Service - indicated by involvement/leadership in scientifically or educationally related organizations, service to the department, and professional service to the community
4) Professional Maturity - indicated by an essay that shows evidence of reflection about accomplishments and goals

 

FAQs
Who should I ask to write me letters of recommendation?

The Selection Committee prefers recommendation letters from full-time faculty members.  They will, however, accept letters from an instructor, laboratory teaching assistant, or academic advisor.  At least one of the letters must be from someone within a science discipline at OSU.

What is a CV?

A CV (curriculum vitae) is a written description of your work and research experience, educational background, and skills.  It is similar to a resume but is not limited to 1-2 pages, includes more details, and focuses on your applicable experiences and skills rather than on your recent work history.  You can visit with someone in Career Services for assistance in developing your CV.

What do I gain from applying?

These awards are competitive and prestigious. Receiving an award is an acknowledgement and record of strong academic and professional performance that will bolster your CV considerably, regardless of your career goals (e.g. medical school). In addition, you will receive anywhere between $300 and $1250!

Should I apply for an award based on my number of earned hours or by the years I’ve attended college?

We recommend you apply based on year and expected graduation date instead of earned hours.

Can I receive the same award twice?

This depends on the award. Most awards are offered as one time honors.  The Chappabitty Award can be renewed.