Arizona State University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Department of Political Science

Sarah Anne McNeil Memorial Scholarship

Department of Political Science
Arizona State University

Sarah Anne McNeil was killed in a car accident on December 17th, 2004. She was 21 years old. At the time of her death, Sarah had a double major in political science and kinesiology and carried an overall GPA of 3.9. As a way of honoring her industry, her spirit, and her character, the Department of Political Science established in January 2005 this memorial scholarship. Each spring one political science major will be designated a "McNeil Scholar." The Scholarship carries with it a minimum award of $500.

The McNeil Scholarship is open to any political science major a) with a GPA of 3.5 or above and b) who either has at least one additional major or can demonstrate a focus on teaching-in the future, currently, or in the past-or who works, has worked, or wants to work with children. By meeting one of these last two criteria, the McNeil Scholar will thereby reflect one of Sarah's interests.

Interested applicants should fill out the application form and write a brief essay (around 500 words) on one of two topics: 1) the importance or value of combining the study of political science with at least one additional major or 2) the role and importance of teaching or otherwise working with children in today's society.

Minimum Criteria:

  1. Applicant should have at least a sophomore class standing.
  2. Applicant should have an overall GPA of 3.5 or above and/or a political science GPA of 3.5 or above.
  3. Applicant should be a double major or be able to demonstrate a background or keen interest in teaching and/or working with children.
  4. Consideration will be shown to applicants with financial need, but financial need is not a requirement.
  5. Applicant receiving the scholarship one year may reapply in a subsequent year.

Selection Process:

  • Selection will be based upon the scholarship application and quality of the essay, the topic of which is described above.
  • Application and essay must be typed. The essay should be around 500 words (Shorter is better).

The application form is available on the Department Web Site and at the Department of Political Science Department, Lattie F. Coor Hall, Room 6742. The deadline for the submission of applications is February 25, 2009.

* Printable Application form