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Opportunity Scholarships

Back a Bengal: Invest in Honors Student Success

At the University Honors Program (UHP), we believe financial barriers should never stand in the way of a student’s curiosity. As Idaho’s only Honors Bachelor Degree-granting institution, we attract students who are eager to research, create, serve, and lead—but many of them are doing so while facing significant financial hurdles.

The Reality of the Journey  Our Honors students hail from departments across ISU. And like all ISU students, Many are the first in their families to attend college, some come from small rural communities, and others are student-athletes or balancing full-time jobs with intense academic loads.

Often, the "small" costs—a heavy textbook, a graduate school application fee, or specialized research materials—become the biggest obstacles to their success.

How Your Gift Makes a Difference

Through our Opportunity Scholarships, you can directly sponsor a student’s specific academic needs that fall outside the scope of tuition. Your support provides the tangible resources required for them to cross the finish line:

  • Future Readiness: GRE, MCAT, or Praxis testing fees and graduate school applications.

  • Academic Essentials: Course textbooks, specialized lab materials, and artistic supplies.

  • The Honors Experience: Musical instrument maintenance, research tools, and commuting costs.

Every gift matters. Thank you for championing our Honors Students!

How to Sponsor a Student

Supporting our Honors Bengals is a simple, three-step process. Explore the colleges below to find a student whose story and academic goals resonate with you.

  1. Browse by College: Open the accordions below to see students organized by their field of study.

  2. Meet our Students: Each profile features a photo and a brief description of the student's specific academic need—from specialized lab equipment to graduate school testing fees.

  3. Click to Give: Once you find a student you wish to support, click on the student's profile.  You will be directed to a secure donation page where the student’s name and requested amount are automatically filled in.
    Note: You may adjust the donation amount or manually enter another student's name at any time before submitting your gift.  
    Once an individual student's request has been fully funded, any additional donations in their name will be distributed among unfunded student requests.

A medium shot of a young woman with wavy brown hair and a bright smile, standing in front of an orange background. She is wearing a sleeveless, dusty pink peplum top and blue jeans. Behind her is a large Idaho State University logo, featuring the
Addison Bouyear - Elementary Education & Psychology

As a first-generation student passionate about teaching the next generation, I love spending time outdoors and reading. I am requesting $250 to help offset textbook costs for my heavy summer course load and to fund the IC3 Key Applications Exam required for one of my upcoming courses.

Two young women interact at an art display table indoors. One woman stands in the foreground with her back to the camera, wearing a white polka-dot sleeveless top, a large olive green backpack with a blue water bottle, and a distinct tattoo on her upper arm. She is gesturing toward the second woman, who is seated behind a black-clothed table and smiling warmly. On the table and surrounding easels
Amanda Coburn - Art

I am requesting $180 for essential printmaking supplies, including carving tools and inks, to improve my skills outside the university print shop this summer. My artwork explores contemporary United States politics and European witch hunts, and these materials will help me create pieces for my upcoming thesis exhibition.

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Axel Ballard - Political Science

I'm a freshman with autism who loves music and aspires to serve my country in the Forest Service.  I'm struggling financially because it has been hard for me to find a job.  I feel as though I've spent more time applying to jobs than studying this semester. $250 would help me pay my housing bill and allow me to focus more clearly on my coursework and future goals.

A young man in a camouflage t-shirt and backward cap smiles on a wooden boardwalk at Yellowstone National Park. He leans against a railing with a sign reading
Bond Gregory - Psychology

I plan to eventually pursue a PhD in Psychiatry, and I am requesting $250 to to buy required textbooks for my classes. Covering these materials will allow me to allocate my remaining funds toward food and essentials, giving me the confidence to excel and stay fully focused on my studies.

A young woman with very long, straight light brown hair smiles while standing on a paved walkway. She is wearing a navy blue cable-knit cardigan buttoned up over black trousers. In the background are the grand, classical stone buildings of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, featuring prominent domes and colonnades, with a modern city skyline visible in the distance under a partly cloudy sky
Chloe Roberts - Psychology & Social Work

Raised in an educational setting by my mom, I love art projects, baking, and taking my dogs to the lake. I'm planning to pursue a Master's degree to become a high school counselor.  I am requesting $190 to cover my Social Work Program's professional program fees, which provide invaluable roleplay scenarios and training to help me become a high school counselor supporting my local community.

A young woman with red hair styled in two long braids smiles for a selfie on a rocky mountain summit. She is wearing an orange t-shirt, round wire-rimmed glasses, and a teal and tan trucker hat. The background features a sweeping panoramic view of a high-altitude mountain range with patches of snow on the peaks under a clear blue sky.
Cosette Wood - Psychology

I'm a third-year student who loves to paint, participate in theater, and explore how my coursework can apply to the fun world of escape rooms. Many of my classes use expensive newly released online textbook editions, so I am requesting $250 to purchase these books and finish out my degree strong and fully prepared!

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Emma Wright - Psychology & Sociology

Because of my own experiences as a child, I want to become a behavioral therapist to help adolescents navigate difficult childhoods and heal their inner child. I work a part-time job to pay for school, but it's not enough. I am requesting $250 to help cover my housing costs, helping me to focus on my education and my calling to protect vulnerable youth.

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Jake Roecker - Commercial Music

I have been playing drums for nine years and love performing at music festivals. I'm also a member of several performing ensembles here at ISU.  I am requesting $200 to purchase a set of recording microphones so I can produce my own music. This equipment will allow me to collaborate globally, grow my network, and gain priceless real-world experience.

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Jazzy Hernandez - Psychology & Criminology

I run a busy schedule as an Honors Teaching Assistant and a volunteer at the Intensive English Institute. Because I commute to campus daily, I am requesting $175 to fund my general parking pass for the upcoming year and to help cover the ongoing expenses of gas.  I want to express my appreciation for the donors to the Honors Program, it really is a blessing to be a part of a community that gives generously!

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Kali Earl - Psychology & Sociology

I'm a senior who is actively working as a peer academic advisor and a research assistant in a psych lab project on resilience and development. My future goals are to gain work experience, pursue a doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology, and work with those who struggle with sleeping due to PTSD and other trauma. I am requesting $200 to purchase my final semester's textbooks and to cover travel fees for an upcoming conference, where I am excited to present findings from my honors thesis.

 

 

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Katherine Butler - Anthropology

I chose my field because I genuinely like people and believe everyone has an interesting story to share. I hope to eventually work outdoors for the National Parks Service or National Geographic. My courses require a lot of textbooks - sometimes up to three books for one class - and they aren't cheap or easy to come by. I am requesting $220 to help pay for my heavy reading load of textbooks, ensuring I learn from trusted, reliable resources.

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Lesly Garcia - Social Work & Criminology

I'm a senior and first-generation Hispanic student. I absolutely love going camping and spending time out in nature. As required, I am taking the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) exam this summer. The exam, not including practice tests, will cost about $300, and I don't have the funds to cover all the cost.  I am requesting $250 to help me pay for the exam.  Your support will help me take this crucial next step in my professional career.

A young woman with long, wavy dark brown hair and a bright smile stands in a field. She is wearing a light grey or lavender ribbed t-shirt and has one hand on her hip in a relaxed pose. She is surrounded by tall green grass and vibrant, blooming orange poppies, with a soft-focus background of trees and a distant path under bright, natural light.
Madelyn Shaw - Psychology & Sociology

In my free time, I enjoy reading, running, playing the piano, and singing. With the eventual goal of becoming a clinical psychologist, I am requesting $220 to help pay for the GRE. This funding will allow me to become a more competitive applicant for doctoral graduate programs.

A person with short, wavy brown hair plays a brass saxophone during an outdoor performance. They are wearing a vibrant, multicolored button-down shirt with a bold circular and floral pattern. Their nails are painted black, and they are looking off to the side with focus while playing into a microphone. The background is filled with soft-focus green trees.
Sky Olsen - Commercial Music

I love playing jazz, managing my own band, and bringing live music to my community. I'm currently a part-time waitress, but I hope to one day be a professional touring musician. The saxophone is a very technical instrument and its sound is easily impacted by changes in climate, humidity and frequent use. I am requesting $200 to have my well-loved tenor saxophone refurbished. This will ensure I continue playing my best at gigs and rehearsals.

A young woman with long, straight brown hair and a friendly smile stands outdoors. She is wearing a black t-shirt, light-wash blue jeans, and a delicate silver necklace. She has one hand in her pocket and leans against a white metal railing, with a dense background of sunlit green trees and foliage.
TeAnna Hutchins - Public Relations & Graphic Design

In my current Career Path Internship as a Social Media and Marketing Intern at ISU, I manage university social media accounts and attend events to capture student experiences, write captions, and strategically share moments that represent the Bengal community in an authentic and positive way. I am requesting $250 to purchase a professional camera for my upcoming spring photography class. Strengthening my photography skills will allow me to beautifully preserve the energy, emotion, and Bengal smiles of our campus for my classes and future career.

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Aubrey Scheffler - Marketing

I'm a junior and I love painting, cross-stitch, and meeting new people through networking. My dream is to move to Oregon and work as an outreach specialist for a non-profit youth organization, Friends of the Children. I am asking for $200 to cover textbook costs for my upper-division courses, allowing me to focus fully on my coursework and creative passions.

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Emma Ineck - Business

 I work exceptionally hard to maintain excellent grades and financially support myself while my family copes with my Dad's challenging health circumstances. My long term goal is to earn a graduate degree in non-profit management and theology so that I can work in the non-profit sector to foster youth and care for vulnerable populations. I am requesting $250 for textbooks and supplies required for my courses. 

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Jonny Thienes - Marketing & Finance

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, I am passionate about surfing, snowboarding, and hiking.  As a freshman I have been doing my best to get involved on campus and in my Honors community. I've done this by completing a Marketing internship with Benny's Pantry, I'm a Student Manager for the Men's Basketball team, and I'm an Honors Peer Mentor. I love helping people and I want to provide an amazing mentorship foundation to others so that they feel ISU can be a home for them.  I am requesting $200 to put toward a new laptop and commuting gas, helping me stay organized and connected in my academic community.

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Macy Winder - Accounting & Finance

I am a driven and motivated sophomore with a strong interest in gaining a global perspective on business and financial systems.  I have always been deeply inspired by the artistic legacy and historic cities of Europe so I am thrilled to have the opportunity to participate in the College of Business study abroad trip to Germany, Poland, Czechia, and Austria this summer.  I am requesting $250 to help offset travel expenses for the trip. This immersive experience will broaden my global perspective and complement studies in accounting and finance.

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Cheyenne Smith - Sport & Exercise Science

Who knew college could be so expensive? I'm working and supporting myself through college, but the extra course fees and textbooks costs are stressing me out. I am requesting $246.75 to help with these extra costs. Your contribution would give me wonderful financial support, allowing me to better focus on my studies and prepare to go to graduate school for physical or occupational therapy.

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Kristen Halcomb - Sport & Exercise Science

I'm a senior and I am thrilled to be starting my Physical Therapy doctorate program this fall! To ensure I am fully prepared for my first year, I am requesting $250 to renew my necessary CPR certification and purchase required textbooks. This support will allow me to focus on my goal of preparing well and working hard to bring my best to this program.

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McKenzie Leckie - Elementary Education

I am so excited to become a teacher! My coursework requires expensive textbooks and frequent field hours, which means commuting to local schools. I am requesting $250 to help cover my gas expenses for these commutes and my textbooks, allowing me to focus on learning rather than worrying about transportation costs.

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Scotlyn Christy - Secondary Education

I am passionate about pursuing a career in education and plan to teach high school Math and English. I am requesting $155 to purchase my required Praxis Test and a practice exam. This support will greatly assist me in preparing for and taking this essential step toward teaching.

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Abigail Millington - Health Sciences

In my free time, I love spending time outdoors, hiking, hunting, and crocheting. My dream is to attend Physician Assistant school. In order to make that dream a reality, I am required to take the GRE. I want to be fully prepared for this exam so I need additional study materials. I am requesting $250 to cover the cost of the GRE exam and preparation materials, ensuring that my GRE score will strengthen my application.

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Alia Oarbeascoa - Radiographic Sciences

I have been deeply interested in medical imaging since I first learned about it, and I am passionate about building a career where I can make a meaningful difference in patient's lives. As a first-generation college student, pursuing higher education has been exciting, but navigating the financial aid system and the extra costs are challenging.  Even with family support and scholarships, I do not have enough to cover tuition and all the extra costs.  I am requesting $250 to help pay the balance. This assistance will allow me to remain focused on my academics and future healthcare career.

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Annastyn Kunka - Nursing

I work in a nursing home, striving to provide excellent care and a positive attitude for residents. My goal is to become a skilled and empathetic registered nurse who advocates for patients and contributes positively to the healthcare system. I am requesting $250 to purchase an iPad, which will allow me to efficiently access electronic textbooks, practice dosage calculations, and organize notes. This tool is essential for my demanding healthcare coursework.

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Bailey Brooks - Health Sciences

I'm a junior Health Science major and Certified Nursing Assistant balancing 19 credits and two jobs. I am requesting $250 to help pay for rigorous science textbooks and digital access codes, and to save for my upcoming GRE exam to become a PA.

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Bailey Harrington - Radiographic Science

I'm from a rural community that is a a nine-hour drive from campus.  I hope to return home after college to serve my community's medical needs. I am requesting $250 to help cover travel costs when I drive to and from campus during breaks. This support would greatly offset my gas expenses, helping me afford the long commute.

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Brecklyn Golightly - Nursing

I have wanted to become a nurse since I was a little girl, inspired by my aunt as she pursued her nursing degree at ISU. I've always admired her compassion and dedication, and I hope to follow in her footsteps by becoming a caring and committed nurse.  I currently work at the hospital to help pay my way through school. I am requesting $110 for my microbiology and medical ethics textbooks. This support will assist me to focus fully on my education and training.

A young woman with blonde hair tied back smiles warmly in an indoor setting. She is wearing blue medical scrubs over a white long-sleeved shirt, with an orange ID badge clipped to her collar identifying her as a nursing student. A small, yellow cartoon character pin is attached to her scrubs. The background includes a wooden cabinet topped with green plants and a window with white blinds.
Gracie Miller - Nursing & Psychology

I'm a senior and I currently work as a pharmacy technician to pay for my education.  My end goal is to use my degrees in psychology and nursing as a psychiatric nurse for geriatrics. I am passionate about improving care for the growing elderly population, particularly those experiencing dementia. I am requesting $250 for my required professional program fees and textbooks. This will help me ultimately provide dedicated mental and physical care as a psychiatric specialist.

A young woman with red hair and freckles smiles while standing in front of lush green bushes with small white flowers. She is wearing a black t-shirt with criss-cross lattice detailing on the sleeves. A prominent tattoo on her upper arm features a dinosaur skull surrounded by colorful purple, blue, and red flowers. She has a small braid in her hair and is wearing a delicate gold necklace.
Korisa Rider - Health Sciences

I'm a motivated senior pursuing a career in dentistry.  My rigorous science coursework has deepened my strong interest in oral health, patient care, and lifelong learning. I am requesting $150 to help cover required lab fees and textbooks that are crucial to my academic success. Your donation will allow me to be more focused on my academic career and continue making the most of my Honors education.

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Lizbeth Arellano Santoyo - Health Sciences & Spanish for the Health Professions

I am a senior and a first-generation student who is committed to becoming a physician who serves rural and underserved communities that lack access to culturally competent care. In order to apply to medical school, I must take the MCAT exam. To ensure that I am thoroughly prepared, I will invest in quality preparation materials and dedicate time to study for the exam.  I am requesting $225 for MCAT registration fees and quality preparation materials, allowing me to dedicate my energy toward building a strong medical school application.

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Maya Blom - Nursing

I just began my first semester in the nursing program! I am so excited for this opportunity and grateful to be pursuing an education that will come with rewarding experiences as a nurse and for my future patients. I hope to eventually specialize in the operating room or postpartum care. I am requesting $224 to cover the Fall fee for the Kaplan system that is required by the nursing program each semester. This resource is essential to help me prepare for the NCLEX, the final board exam for my degree. 

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Meadow Link - Nursing & Spanish for Health Professions

I'm a hardworking first-generation college student, a CNA, an EMT, a rehabilitation assistant, and a passionate bilingual Spanish speaker. I also actively volunteer as an EMT and at an animal shelter. Growing up in a rural farming town inspired my passion for community service and providing bilingual healthcare. I am requesting $250 to help afford my expensive online Spanish textbooks and workbooks. Receiving this scholarship would significantly reduce financial stress and allow me to focus more fully on my studies, clinical development, and continued community service.

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Piper Hubler - Nursing

Outside of my heavy coursework, I love helping my community and raising animals, especially pigs and dogs.  I will be taking my TEAS test at the end of this semester, which is required for my application to the Nursing program.  I am requesting $250 to cover TEAS exam fee of $115, as well as necessary study supplies like online textbooks, highlighters, and sticky notes to help me thoroughly prepare.

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Sidney Albritton - Nursing

I'm a freshman from Filer, ID and my dream is to eventually work as a Pediatric Oncology Nurse. I have many different books required for my classes and I will take the TEAS exam soon, which is required for nursing school. This fall I will take the TEAS test, a standardized test required to the nursing program. I am requesting $250 to put toward my required textbooks and the TEAS entrance exam. This funding will help me take essential steps toward my goal of providing specialized patient care.

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Sydney Summers - Nursing

I'm a sophomore who loves camping and watching movies with my family. My own experiences as a patient receiving amazing care inspired my lifelong dream of becoming a nurse.  This fall I will take the TEAS test, a standardized test required for applying to the nursing program. I am requesting $115 to cover my TEAS standardized entrance exam fee, giving me peace of mind to focus entirely on studying.

A young woman with shoulder-length light brown hair and a bright smile sits on a set of weathered stone steps. She is leaning her chin on her hand in a relaxed, thoughtful pose. She is wearing blue denim overalls over a white sleeveless top, accessorized with a gold watch and a delicate necklace. The steps behind her are aged with patches of moss and lichen.
Yulia McLane - Nursing

I'm a freshman from Ukraine who was adopted five years ago. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities my Idaho family has provided me. I will be preparing to take the TEAS exam next year.  I am requesting $200 to help pay for the TEAS exam fee and study materials, which is a crucial step in preparing my application for clinical programs in my junior year.

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Ashraya Burlakoti - Biology

I'm an international freshman fascinated by science, research, and understanding how genetics affects people's health, especially in places where access to genetic care is limited. I want to work in healthcare and focus on genetics and genomic counseling.  I rely heavily on financial support from home, and recent political and economic changes have affected currency value, making basic academic expenses harder to manage. I am requesting $250 to help cover the fees for my Biology 1102 Lab and the required textbook (Campbell Biology in Focus, 4th Edition), relieving financial pressure so I can focus on my research and coursework.

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Brady Stein - Nuclear Engineering

I'm a 3rd year student aiming to work at a nuclear reactor like Homer Simpson! I have had the honor to be an Honors Peer Mentor, where I helped guide a new freshman class of engineering students into finding their role as a college student. It has been very rewarding to see my mentees progress from shy, unexperienced newcomers to confident leaders of clubs, research groups, and campus events. I am requesting $250 dollars to help pay for an iPad to use for my studies. I would use it in place of paper and pen for notes, engineering drawings, and homework assignments, creating a cleaner, more organized, and less wasteful workspace.

 

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David Biobaku - Mechanical Engineering

Outside of my academics, I greatly enjoy spending time with friends and focusing on my personal development. I am requesting $200 to help cover the cost of my engineering textbooks. This support will provide financial relief and enable me to dedicate my time to my academic goals.  I would be truly grateful for your contribution to my educational journey. Thank You!

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Grace Mitchell - Biology & Health Sciences

Getting glasses in second grade completely changed my life and inspired my dream of becoming an optometrist to help others see the world. I look forward to when I get into optometry school and begin learning how to assess, treat, and maintain people's eyesight. But first I have to get through Advanced A&P and Organic Chem!  I am requesting $250 to purchase, instead of rent, the necessary course materials.  I believe it would be beneficial for me to actually own these materials so I can study more intently with them and take notes in them.

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Jodi Zieglmeier - Biomedical Sciences

Watching my mother recover from a stroke with the help of occupational therapists sparked my passion for becoming a pediatric occupational therapist. I am especially drawn to pediatrics because early intervention can change the entire trajectory of a child's life. I am currently volunteering as an America Reads tutor for kindergarten students.  This summer I plan to enroll in ISU's online Registered Behavior Technician certification course, which is not covered by any of my scholarships.  I am requesting $250 to help pay for the course, gaining hands-on experience in behavior analysis will make me a much stronger, more effective clinician for children.

A young woman with long, straight strawberry-blonde hair smiles warmly while tilting her head slightly to the side. She is wearing a dark navy blue button-down shirt. The photo is a close-up portrait taken outdoors with a soft-focus background of golden fields and green trees under a bright, overcast sky.
Lauren Owens - Biochemistry

I have loved exploring the many opportunities ISU has to offer, including conducting research on possible life in Jurassic-age salt crystals with the Chemistry Department, participating in the Honors Civic Scholars Program, and volunteering at the Pocatello Free Clinic. I am also a nationally certified phlebotomist, which requires recertification.  This comes with a variety of fees that can put strain on a student's budget. I am requesting $200 to help cover the various fees associated with my yearly phlebotomy license recertification and my upcoming research costs, including travel and equipment expenses.

A young woman stands beside a bright lime-green tent in a desert landscape. She is wearing a light blue long-sleeved hooded sun shirt, black hiking pants, and red-framed mirrored sunglasses. The background features expansive dry brush and dramatic red rock mesas glowing under the warm light of a setting or rising sun.
Miriam Fridel - Geosciences

This summer I will be attending ISU's geology field camp at the Lost River Field Station. Field camp is the capstone course for geology majors, allowing us to apply the skills we have learned in our classes. In order to successfully spend a month doing geology in the mountains, I need specialized field gear. I am requesting $80 to purchase specialized field pants. Having this proper, durable clothing will allow me to take full advantage of my capstone outdoor learning experience while staying fully focused on my academic work.

A young man with dark, curly hair and a wide, happy smile stands in front of a bright orange Idaho State University backdrop. He is wearing a black t-shirt and an orange lanyard, and he is holding up a card that says
Omar Sallam - Software Engineering

As an Egyptian international student, majoring in Software engineering with a Computer Science minor and Project Management certification, I face significantly higher educational fees. The textbook and software costs required for my classes this semester are expensive. I also need to upgrade my computer to help meet the minimum class and hardware requirements. I am requesting $250 to help pay for these materials so I can excel in these classes.

A young man with messy dark hair and a wide, friendly smile gives a
Parker Romero - Ecology and Conservation Biology

I've always been passionate about the outdoors, spending most of my time hiking, backpacking, climbing, and skiing. Through my coursework and outdoor experiences, I've developed a deep appreciation for the complexity, resilience, and interconnectedness of natural ecosystems. This appreciation drives my commitment to conserving ecosystems and protecting the species that depend on them!  I am asking for $250 to help cover the expensive book costs for my Physics 1, Organic Evolution, and Animal Behavior classes. Thank you for supporting my education!

 

A young woman with long, wavy light brown hair smiles brightly while posing outdoors. She is wearing a white button-down shirt with thin black vertical stripes and a black crossbody bag strap. The background features grand, historic European architecture with prominent stone domes and ruins under a clear blue sky with light clouds.
Saige Rigby - Biomedical Sciences

I'm a junior planning to graduate and entering an accelerated Master's program in biology directly after. My biggest long-term goal is to go to dental school and become a general dentist. One big step toward achieving this goal is taking the Dental Admissions Test, or DAT, which requires significant preparation using study programs that are expensive. I am requesting $250 to help purchase an intensive Dental Admissions Test (DAT) study program, which is essential to performing well on the exam. With this help, I get one step closer to my goal, and I will soon be able to apply to dental schools.

A young woman with long, wavy brown hair and a bright smile leans against a large, textured tree trunk. She is wearing a navy blue oversized ribbed sweater and one hand is resting on her hip. The background is a soft-focus autumn landscape with golden field grass and yellow leaves illuminated by warm, natural light.
Sara Mackenzie - Biomedical Sciences

I'm a senior who enjoys playing music (I'm also pursuing a minor in music!), reading, doing puzzles, and hiking. My ultimate goal is to work as a pediatrician in a medically underserved country. This spring I am applying to several medical schools through the AMCAS system.  I am requesting $222 to cover the cost of applying to two schools. I appreciate any help I can get to make my goal a reality!

A close-up portrait of a young woman with long, straight dark brown hair and a bright, warm smile. She is wearing a yellow and white plaid button-down shirt. The background is a soft-focus field of green grass, with natural light highlighting her features.
Sarah Faulk - Nuclear Engineering

I explored many STEM fields before finding Nuclear Engineering, a discipline that immediately captivated me with its complexity, responsibility, and potential to create meaningful, lasting change.  I have actively immersed myself in the nuclear industry earning earned my Reactor Operator license through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in my freshman year and completing an internship with the Advanced Test Reactor division at Idaho National Laboratory last summer. This summer I will continue my professional development through an internship focusing on nuclear safety and analysis, while taking courses.  I am requesting $250 to offset summer tuition and housing expenses that are not covered by scholarships.

A young man sits on a rock atop a snow-covered mountain peak, smiling while holding up a single long ski. He is wearing a blue long-sleeved hooded shirt, grey hiking pants, a tan sun hat, and orange-tinted mirrored sunglasses. Next to him are a backpack, hiking boots, and trekking poles settled in the snow. The background reveals a vast, rugged mountain range under a blue sky with soft white cloud
Wendell Bouwens - Earth & Environmental Systems

Have you ever had a "poo with a view" while in the great outdoors? If so, you have participated unknowingly in the subject of my Honors thesis research! I am a junior with a research project examining how buried human waste affects soil nutrient levels, especially in areas with high human impact. Outside of my research, I enjoy backpacking, running, and skiing. During my summers, I work in Yosemite National Park on a park trail crew, keeping trails safe and accessible. I am requesting $200 to help cover my campus housing and meal plan so I can continue focusing on my rigorous research.

A young woman with long, wavy auburn hair smiles as she looks off to the side, posing in a vast field. She is wearing a short, tiered white dress with flutter sleeves and cut-out details at the waist, paired with off-white high-top sneakers. The background features a dramatic mountain range with patches of snow under an overcast sky.
Whitnee Waldron - Ecology & Conservation Biology

I am pursuing a career related to wildlife and environmental conservation because I have always been curious about the natural world and motivated by a desire to understand and protect it. I am a hardworking, motivated student who values both learning and real-world application. I aim to build a strong foundation in biology, ecology, and conservation that will allow me to contribute meaningfully to environmental work and conservation efforts in the future. Because my coursework includes many laboratory sections, the textbooks and extra lab fees add up very quickly. I am requesting $250 to purchase much-needed textbooks and cover lab fees, easing my financial pressure and giving me more money for rent and groceries.