Arkansas Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Scholarship

The Arkansas Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (ARK-LSAMP) aims to increase the number of underrepresented minority students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. It has a stated goal of increasing the pool of baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral degree graduates in STEM disciplines in Arkansas’ workforce. The program serves African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Native Pacific Islanders.

Since its inception, ARK-LSAMP has been actively engaged in assisting students in developing skills and learning strategies that will guarantee success in their fields of study. ARK-LSAMP scholars are able to gain a competitive edge through intrusive academic advising and mentoring, social support and networking opportunities, and financial incentives. Students are offered increased access to high-quality faculty-mentored research experiences and professional development opportunities. ARK-LSAMP is designed to increase students’ exposure to research and professionals within their disciplines through STEM seminars, workshops and other enrichment activities. Students are encouraged to apply for internships and summer research experiences and are supported to give presentations at conferences.

LSAMP scholars at UA Little Rock are immersed in a learning community by taking classes with other outstanding STEM students and have to the opportunity to live in reserved STEM housing. The annual financial support is $1,800 and is renewable for a second year.

Program Eligibility

• US Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Acceptance for admission at UA Little Rock and majoring in a STEM discipline
• Complete application requirements for ARK-LSAMP (See application form below)
• GPA of at least 3.0
• ACT score of at least 19

Benefits

• $1800 annual stipend, renewable for a second year
• Paid research experiences
• Travel support to attend & present at conferences
• In-depth academic advising and mentoring
• Assistance with graduate school preparation
• Professional development workshops
• Increased opportunities to network within STEM disciplines
• Opportunities to develop public speaking, writing and leadership skills

Program Requirements

• Attend six-week Summer Institute that provides necessary skills and knowledge for in-coming freshmen to make a seamless transition to college.  Scholars receive a $1,200 stipend plus room and board
• LSAMP Scholars are required to attend regular monthly meetings
• Attend the annual Arkansas state-wide LSAMP Conference
• Participate in at least three (3) discipline-specific events or activities each semester
• Participate in at least two (2) service activities each semester (outreach, recruitment, volunteer, etc.)
• Apply for at least one application for an internship, REU, graduate school program, or fellowship each year
• Submit annual updated resume or CV
• Complete all program evaluation activities and surveys

Application Requirements

• Completed Application Form (above)
• High School Transcript
• Copy of ACT Scores
• Personal Statement
  • Applicants should write a brief (1-2 pages) statement describing your academic and career goals.  The statement should detail your professional aspirations, intellectual interests and relevant personal experiences.  Explain why you’ve chosen your selected STEM major and how you plan to utilize your degree to promote positive change or influence within your discipline or in our society.  Also include what you hope to gain from LSAMP and how the program will assist you in reaching your goals.