University of Arizona honors first-year international students with new scholarship

The University of Arizona has introduced the International Service & Leadership Scholarship, celebrating first-year international students who have demonstrated outstanding community contributions and leadership before joining the university. With award amounts ranging up to $5,000, this scholarship reflects the university’s commitment to fostering student engagement, leadership, and a sense of global community.

According to Director of International Admissions and Enrollment Katie Van Wyk, the university's holistic approach to admissions inspired the scholarship. “While academic achievement and merit are essential, community involvement and leadership commitment indicate a student’s potential for long-term success,” Van Wyk said. 

Scholarship applicants were evaluated on three main criteria: a compelling essay, a detailed resume of community involvement, and active engagement with the university’s International Admissions team. For this inaugural cycle, 190 students applied by the early deadline of December 1st, with 168 receiving awards ranging from $500 to $5,000. 

The scholarship recognizes diverse forms of service and leadership, from volunteerism to team projects and extracurricular activities, aiming to reward students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to making an impact locally and globally. Van Wyk explained, “A strong essay outlines how a student will engage at the U of A and how this will impact their future career.”  

This emphasis on engagement and vision was evident in the essays submitted by recipients. One student, inspired by the U of A’s Bachelor of Architecture program, articulated their aspiration to address global challenges through sustainable design:  

"The University of Arizona’s Bachelor of Architecture program offers an exceptional platform to develop the technical expertise, creative thinking, and hands-on experience I need to succeed as an architect in an evolving global environment. By engaging with such cutting-edge areas, I hope to expand my knowledge and apply these insights to design solutions that address pressing issues like climate change and urbanization." 

Another recipient, drawn to the university’s renowned astronomy program, expressed ambitions to contribute to the future of space exploration while fostering a sense of community:  

"At the U of A, I wish to build, inspire, and be an active member of a community of thinkers and believers who wish to invest in themselves and Earth as a whole. The tight-knit scientific community at the U of A can help me achieve this not only by helping me network with some of the smartest minds but also forging strong connections with peers and colleagues." 

These reflections illustrate the type of students the scholarship seeks to empower—those with a clear vision for using their education to create meaningful change and actively contributing to the U of A community.

Van Wyk also noted the scholarship’s lasting impact. Recipients are encouraged to remain involved with the International Admissions office through outreach initiatives, webinars, and media projects. “This award not only supports our students financially but also fosters a culture of giving back,” she said

By recognizing students who exemplify leadership and service, the International Service & Leadership Scholarship reinforces the University of Arizona’s mission to cultivate engaged global citizens who make meaningful contributions to their communities.

The next deadline for the International Service & Leadership Scholarship is February 1, for admitted students.