1. Important Application Information & Insights from National Selection Committee Dr. Julia Goldberg, Associate Dean of the College http://externalscholarships.lafayette.edu/ externalscholarships@lafayette.edu November 10, 2011 1

2. C AREER G OAL In one or two sentences, describe your career goal. Example: Ph.D. in Molecular Biology. Conduct research in biomedical science and teach at the university level. You may provide a more detailed description of your career goals. 2

3. R ESEARCH A CTIVITIES List past and present research activities associated with your interests in mathematics, science, or engineering in which you regularly participate. Explain the duration, degree, and significance of your involvement, including what responsibilities you had in the project. In the absence of formal research experience, describe briefly any other skills or accomplishments, i.e., posters, presentations, publications, etc., significant and relevant to this application. 3

4. P ROFESSIONAL A SPIRATIONS What are your professional aspirations? Indicate which area(s) of mathematics, science, or engineering you are considering making your career and specify how your current academic program and your overall educational plans will assist you in achieving this goal. 4

5. M OTIVATION FOR STEM C AREER Describe an activity or experience that has been important in clarifying or strengthening your motivation for a career in science, mathematics, or engineering. 5

6. P ERSONAL I NFORMATION Goldwater Scholars will be representative of the diverse economic, ethnic, and occupational backgrounds of families in the United States. Describe any characteristics or other personal information about yourself or your family that you wish to share with the selection committee. 6

7. R ESEARCH E SSAY : 2 P GS /2-C OLUMN /11 P T F ONT Discuss a significant issue or problem of particular interest. The essay must include a/an: description of the issue or problem, discussion of an idea for research that would have significant impact on the issue or problem, description of an aspect of the research in which you would be involved, explanation of issue/problem’s relevance to you, indication of the collaborative or individual participation in the research, and bibliography/references & illustrations (where appropriate). The essay’s content & style is important! Assume that the reader will have the expertise to read, review, and understand the complexities of the field of specialty. 7

8. R ECOMMENDATIONS Please evaluate the applicant's: Personal characteristics; Motivation; Potential for a career in STEM. Your evaluation must address: Criteria on which you base your judgments & How the applicant meets your criteria. Provide specific examples that illustrate the applicant's performance, maturity, initiative, and potential. 8