Experiential Learning Scholarship
The School of Integrative Studies (SIS) Experiential Learning (EL) Scholarship is open to George Mason University students enrolled in Integrative Studies or Environmental Sustainability Studies degrees and registered to participate in an EL program such as an Alternative Break, Field Studies Course, Mason Study Abroad or other EL experience with travel and/or academic costs associated, during the spring, summer, fall or winter semesters. Scholarships are need- and merit-based. Each applicant is carefully considered by the School of Integrative Studies Awards Committee. The Committee looks for applicants who have a strong academic record, demonstrate financial need, and are passionate about their Experiential Learning program.
Garrett Fojtik
Garrett Fojtik, a student from the School of Integrative Studies, has won a scholarship for the Experiential Learning foundation. He has secured a spot in the study-abroad trip to Iquitos, Peru focused on the Conservation and Sustainability of the Amazon Rainforest. This study abroad trip to Peru is intended to focus on Conservation and Sustainability of the Amazon Rainforest and will be largely centered around biology and ecology. Taking on a minor in Consciousness and Transformation, he is interested in doing his own inquiry into the well-being of the people living in the Amazon and seeing what unique factors are contributing to their well-being so that he can compare it to what he experiences in his own life. He believes that “As lifelong learners, we each bring a unique perspective to every learning experience. It is interesting to see how individual people in the same learning environment walk away with different and individualized take-aways ad lessons.”
Alexis Green
Alexis Green, who is an Integrative Studies major with a concentration in Childhood Studies, has won a scholarship for the Experiential Learning foundation. She was accepted to participate in the Alternative Break, in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, Experiential Learning program. She is currently working with Dr. Pam Garner doing Advanced Research in Child Development. Once she graduates, she plans on working with at-risk youth. “This EL Program will not only help me connect what I’m learning in my classes to the real world, but it will give me an early experience with what I plan to work on in the future- helping kids in need and letting them know that I’ve got their back, even when they believe no one else does.”
Lucas Leadership Scholarship
The School of Integrative Studies (SIS) Lucas Leadership Scholarship honors the contribution and leadership of Dr. Nance Lucas during her tenure as Associate Dean. This scholarship is open to George Mason University students enrolled in Integrative Studies or Environmental Sustainability Studies degrees and demonstrate exceptional leadership and ethics in all areas of academic and personal life. This scholarship is renewable and may be used for tuition and fees and/or sponsored activities, but not travel expenses.
Kathy Ochoa
Kathy Ochoa, is one of two students selected for the Lucas Leadership Scholarship. She is an Integrative Studies major with a concentration in Legal Studies and a double minor in Immigration Studies and Business. Kathy has had the opportunity to work as an intern at the Legal Aid Justice Center, a non-profit organization that helps low-income communities with legal representation. Her role as a community organizer gave her great satisfaction as it allowed her to deepen her ties with the immigrate community that she feels so close to. Kathy has also made an impact on campus working as an intern with Mason Dreamers, an organization that strives to educate, inspire, and break barriers created by the current broken immigration system. "Helping the immigrant community has been my passion since I have also faced many struggles and obstacles to be where I am right now" says Ochoa. Kathy will continue her studies and volunteer work even after graduation in hopes of becoming an immigration lawyer.
Jada Jennings
Jada Jennings, is one of the students who has been selected for the Lucas Leadership Scholarship. She is an Integrative Studies major with a concentration in Elementary Education and a minor in Leadership. Before coming to Mason, she decided to join ROTC hoping to eventually join the military because there are not many African American women who are officers in the military. She has dedicated 30 hours a semester to volunteer with many organizations since joining. Jada and other volunteers have sold bracelets with GMU Students Helping Honduras in which the proceeds go toward building schools in Honduras. She has spent time distributing essential material for Girls on the Run whose goal is to reach out to young girls to reach their full potential. She has spent many sleepless nights building gymnasium sets for Flip for Flight, an event which raises money for breast cancer while children indulge in their competitive spirits. She has also supported veterans in several ways through the Wounded Warrior Project; where she helped with 10K races that raise money or collect clothing to be distributed. “I love connecting with the community through these events. It gives me a sense of purpose to serve by dedicating my time to help anyway I can. I know I am setting a positive example for anyone to follow.”
January 25, 2018
