The University of West Alabama’s (UWA) highlights the benefits of Biology Opportunities and Scholarships for Success (BOSS) II scholarships, consisting of annual scholarships of US$8,500 that are renewable for up to four years.
The biology program at the university has evolved from a fairly traditional small-school biology program to a hands-on one in which students actively participate in undergraduate research.
Key Takeaways:
- BOSS II scholarship opportunities are available through UWA’s Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences.
- The success of the BOSS scholarship program in 2014 contributed to the growth of UWA’s biology program.
- Applicants for the BOSS II scholarship must declare a major in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences.
The development of UWA’s biology program can be attributed to the success of the 2014 scholarship program, BOSS, sponsored by a US$609,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant.
BOSS II scholarship applicants must enroll in a major in the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences.
UWA aims to award 30 students through the project over the next three years, divided into three cohorts of ten students each, and is actively recruiting eligible high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
The student research component of the twin BOSS projects, in addition to the financial support, is a big selling feature and is at the heart of the department’s transformation.
BOSS II emphasizes research, student internships, and attendance at professional meetings and conferences, giving students real-world experience to complement their academic coursework.
Other student activities supported by the NSF program include a summer boot camp, a well-being assessment, tutoring sessions, and academic counseling using metacognitive study strategies.
It can be recalled that NSF awarded UWA’s Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences a US$1.5 million S-STEM grant (Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) last year.
MSM Unify is your one-stop source platform connecting students, higher education institutions, and agents in the US and around the world. Sign up now to get the latest updates and information on international education.
