Sustainability Scholars Program
Lead the Change as a Clarkson Sustainability Scholar
Join Clarkson University’s Sustainability Scholars Program, the flagship experience for students passionate about creating a greener and more sustainable future. This distinguished program combines a $20,000 scholarship with hands-on research, mentorship and real-world sustainability projects—empowering you to make an impact on campus, in the community, and beyond.
Sustainability Scholars Benefits:
- A $20,000 scholarship ($5,000 per year over four years)
- Apprenticeship and internship opportunities with the Institute for a Sustainable Environment (ISE) and the ability to contribute to sustainability projects on campus and in the community
- Priority access to Adirondack courses
- Personalized mentoring and career advising from ISE faculty and alumni
- Priority access to environmental and sustainability-related research projects with world-renowned faculty
- Special ISE networking events
Sustainability Scholars Eligibility
Students must meet two basic criteria for consideration in the Sustainability Scholars Program: choice of Clarkson academic major and high school converted GPA of at least 3.0.
The following major is eligible:
How to Apply
Step 1: Apply to Clarkson University
In order to be considered for the Sustainability Scholars Program, you must first apply to Clarkson University using the Common App or Clarkson App. Eligible students will automatically have a checklist item added to their "To Do List" in their Application Status Portal after they've completed their Clarkson application.
The supplemental materials below need to be submitted by December 1 for Early Decision applicants, and February 1 for Regular Decision applicants. Only as space allows will applications be accepted after these dates. Applications for International, Transfer and Clarkson School students are accepted on a rolling basis until May 1. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Alan Rossner, arossner@clarkson.edu.
Step 2: Video Submission
We want to see what you've been working on and the enthusiasm you will bring to campus as a Sustainability Scholar. Choose one of the video topics below and submit a video link (2-3 minutes) via your Application Status Portal. These supplemental materials need to be submitted by February 1. Early applications are welcome, and they will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee as they are completed.
- Option #1 - Describe and/or show why you are passionate about a career in environmental sustainability.
- Option #2 - Describe and/or show hands-on project(s) related to environmental issues or sustainability that you have worked on.
Step 3: Résumé
Your résumé summarizes your relevant experiences to date. Headings should include personal information (including your contact information, mailing address, email address, and a phone number where you can be reached), and you must have a section on Education. Other sections include some or all of the following: Experience making, building, or repairing products, Honors and Awards, Co-curricular Activities (school activities), Extra-curricular Activities (outside of school), Work and Volunteer Experience, and Other Activities (e.g. hobbies, interests, caregiving).
Sustainability at Clarkson
Here, sustainability is a way of life. The Institute for a Sustainable Environment (ISE) empowers the entire community with the knowledge, experience and connections to take on the biggest environmental and equity challenges and create positive change - on campus and worldwide.
- Clarkson's Hill Campus is powered by 100% renewable electricity
- The Princeton Review names Clarkson as one of the nation's most environmentally responsible colleges
- Our campus features 640 acres of wooded and waterfront land with miles of trails, outdoor coursework, ongoing research projects and more