South Plains Mathematics Scholars

About the Program

The South Plains Mathematics Scholars Program (SPMSP) supports academically talented students from low-income families by providing scholarships for undergraduate study leading to a degree in mathematics. Academically, the program is the same as the general requirements of the mathematics major. However, SPMSP Scholars also find a support system designed specifically with their needs in mind.

Each year approximately 12 incoming freshmen will be admitted to the SPMS Program.  Thanks to a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), they each receive scholarships worth up to $10,000 per year depending on financial need as determined by their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  The scholarships will provide funds for tuition, fees, textbooks, living expenses, and other costs associated with attending Texas Tech University.  Scholars may also be eligible for additional financial aid.

The program affords deserving students an opportunity to defy the constraints associated with their financial situations and complete their education. Students will receive academic mentoring and will discover interesting coursework and rewarding relationships with peers and faculty.  Paid summer research activities may also be available.

Application Information

Applicants should complete:

• The Application for Admission to Texas Tech at www.applytexas.org
  (list mathematics as a major)

• The TTU Scholarship Application www.applytexas.org

• The Federal FAFSA at www.fafsa.ed.gov

The Scholarship Application deadline is February 1. The FAFSA is necessary to verify financial need and should be submitted as early as possible. Students are also encouraged to send a copy of the application to Dr. Brock Williams.

SPMS Activities

Even before they arrive on campus, each scholar is assigned a faculty member to serve as his/her mentor.  The mentor will be there to guide, encourage, and provide an ear to listen.  The mentoring is overseen by Dr. Michael O'Boyle from the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, an internationally recognized expert in the process of mathematical learning.

First-year SPMS students will live in a learning community in Hulen Hall (males and females on separate floors) so that they will get to know each other and participate in activities together, including studying.  For general housing information go to http://myhousing.ttu.edu  For information on the concept involved in learning communities go to
http://housing.ttu.edu/learningcommunities.php.

As scholars progress in their coursework, their mentor will help them begin their own mathematical research.  Junior and senior scholars will have the opportunity to travel to state and national meetings to present their research and meet internationally known mathematicians.

Each year the families of the SPMS scholars are invited to campus for Scholars Day. Families meet math faculty and learn about their scholar's research and the exciting opportunities available to them.

Requirements

The departmental scholarship committee will evaluate applications based on academic aptitude and on financial need as reflected by applicant's FAFSA. An ACT score of 20 or greater or SAT V+M of 950 is highly recommended. Teacher recommendations, participation in UIL or technology-related activities and evidence of high-quality independent projects will help as well.  NSF guidelines require participants be US citizens or permanent residents.

Scholarship support is renewable each year up to a maximum of four years of study, as long as the student remains a full time undergraduate mathematics major and maintains at least a sufficient GPA, and is making satisfactory progress toward a baccalaureate degree offered through our department.