Merage Student Information Guide

The Merage Institute for the American Dream is dedicated to promoting opportunities for immigrants to achieve their American Dream. Selected students will be awarded $10,000 stipends per year for two years. Stipends may be used for fostering education, studying abroad, securing mentors, and supporting internship opportunities.

In addition to receiving stipends, Fellows will be invited to the Institute’s annual National Advisory Board meetings. They will also be able to attend the Institute’s National Forums on Immigration. The Institute will facilitate continuous communication between Fellows regarding their respective pursuit of their American Dream.

Applicants must be full-time graduating senior students, and immigrants to the United States. They must also be US citizens or residents. If candidates are not yet citizens, they must indicate their intent on becoming a citizen in the scholarship application. Candidates will be selected based on demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, creativity, and consistent ethical behavior.

Prior to the national deadline, a UIC committee will evaluate the Merage Institute Fellow applications. UIC may only nominate 3 applicants each year.

If you want to apply for the Merage Institute Program:

1. Visit the Merage Foundation website (http://www.meragefoundations.com/mfad_fellows.html) to download the application and application instructions
2. Contact faculty members to write letters of recommendation for you (at least 3, but students may ask for more)
3. Visit the Office of Special Scholarship Programs to:
--a. Make an appointment with Beth Powers if you want to review your application or essays.
4. Contact the Records Office in Student Services Building (SSB) to request transcript be sent to OSSP
5. Start working on your application early! The best applications are those that have been prepared with thoughtfulness and thoroughness

Important Dates for the Merage Institute Program:
UIC Application Deadline: November 14, 2008
Final Application Deadline: December 12, 2008

For more information contact:
The Office of Special Scholarship Program
The University of Illinois at Chicago
2506 University Hall, (312) 355-2477