The Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program recognizes students of exceptional merit who demonstrate academic and leadership achievements, as well as the passion for community service exemplified by Annika Rodriguez. In keeping with the legacy of the program, applicants should demonstrate their commitment to, or a history of, bringing diverse groups together and celebrating the cultures of different people.
Rodriguez Scholars may receive full-tuition scholarships with a $2,500 stipend or partial-tuition scholarships. The scholarship is renewed each year for the duration of the degree program, provided you progress academically and uphold the high standards of character required of scholars.
If selected as a Rodriguez Scholar, you will be expected to participate in a program that includes orientation, meetings with university and community leaders, academic support and advising, the Rodriguez First-Year Seminar, and events with other Rodriguez Scholars. Scholars are also expected to become involved in activities on campus and in community service projects.
For more information, visit the Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program website.
Eligibility
Students who apply to any undergraduate division of Washington University may apply for the Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program.
Interviews for Finalists
Finalists will be notified by the end of February and invited to a virtual interview. Finalists must attend the interview to remain eligible.
To apply
- Submit an application for admission to the Class of 2028.
- Check that you are applying for the Rodriguez Scholars Program on your Common or Coalition Application.
- Write a short essay (maximum 250 words) on the following topic:
Annika Lynn Rodriguez was born and raised in Puerto Rico prior to attending Washington University. She received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from WashU’s Olin School of Business in 1996, majoring in international business. While a student, she championed awareness for students of all backgrounds, including starting WashU’s first Latin American Awareness Week. She joined the Peace Corps after graduation and was sent to Honduras to support and engage with communities in need. Tragically, she was killed in a flash flood while serving. In remembering her, a friend said, “Annika gave herself wholeheartedly to every person who entered her life.” Reflecting on Annika Rodriguez’ history and legacy, How have you demonstrated your commitment to serving others and championing cultural awareness and understanding? Please provide 1-2 specific examples. - Write a short essay (maximum 200 words) to the following question:
Our lived experiences shape our worldly perspectives. As a community, we aim to learn from one another through attentive listening and meaningful dialogue. How will your lived experiences impact the Rodriguez Scholars Program? - If you’re submitting the Common Application, you can find these prompts in the Writing Supplement section. If you’re submitting the Coalition Application, you will apply through the WashU Pathway after you’ve submitted both your profile and the Washington University-specific questions.
- The scholarship committee will review the two required letters of recommendation submitted with your application for admission. To better understand you, the scholarship committee also requires a third letter of recommendation from someone who can speak to your contributions and commitment to the community.
Deadlines
All applications must be submitted by January 3, 2024.
Annika Rodriguez
Annika Lynn Rodriguez was born and raised in Puerto Rico prior to attending Washington University. She received a Bachelor of Business Administration in international business from the Olin Business School in 1996. While a student, she was active with the Association of Latin American Students, serving as its president during her senior year. Annika was actively involved in Alpha Phi Omega— a national community service organization on campus. She joined the Peace Corps after graduation and was sent to Honduras to aid people living in poverty, where she was tragically killed in a flash flood. In remembering her, a friend said, “Annika gave herself wholeheartedly to every person who entered her life.”