The Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award, established by the North Dakota Space Grant Consortium (NDSGC), is a prestigious scholarship dedicated to empowering female students at the University of North Dakota (UND) pursuing education in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) fields. This $2500 award honors the remarkable achievements and contributions of Pearl I. Young, a trailblazing scientist who defied gender norms to pave the way for future generations of women in STEM. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the history and significance of the Pearl I. Young Scholarship, the eligibility criteria for applicants, past recipients, application guidance, and much more. So, if you are a female student at UND aspiring to make your mark in the STEM world, read on to discover how you can be a part of this prestigious scholarship.
Pearl I. Young: A Legacy of Excellence
Pearl I. Young’s journey as a scholar and scientist began in North Dakota, where she grew up and attended school. Despite facing financial challenges, she exhibited extraordinary determination and commitment to her studies. After attending Jamestown College, she transferred to the University of North Dakota, where she completed her education with a remarkable triple major in physics, mathematics, and chemistry. Young’s achievements earned her the distinction of being a Phi Beta Kappa graduate, a testament to her academic excellence and dedication.
Following her graduation from UND in 1919, Young embarked on a career that exemplified perseverance and brilliance. She worked as a laboratory assistant in the Physics Department while simultaneously contributing to the U.S. Weather Bureau. In 1921, she took up a position at the Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory in Hampton, Virginia. It was here that she made history, becoming the first woman to be hired as a technical employee and a physicist by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later evolved into NASA. Young’s achievements extended beyond her scientific prowess; she also became a university professor, journalist, lecturer, author, and a world traveler, breaking barriers and inspiring countless individuals.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To be eligible for the Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award, aspiring applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Identify as female or outside the gender binary.
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, reflecting their dedication to academic excellence.
- Be an American citizen, ensuring their contribution to the nation’s scientific advancements.
- Major in a STEM or STEM Education field at the University of North Dakota, demonstrating their commitment to shaping the future through scientific pursuits.
Application Guidance
The Pearl I. Young Scholarship application deadline is on February 15th each year. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to thoroughly review the official scholarship link provided by the NDSGC, which can be found at https://ndspacegrant.und.edu/college-students/scholarships/pearl-i-young.html. This link contains essential information, instructions, and guidance on how to apply successfully for the scholarship.
Past Recipients
The Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award has been bestowed upon outstanding female scholars at the University of North Dakota since its inception. Let’s take a moment to recognize some of the remarkable past recipients and their respective fields:
| Name | Year | Field |
|---|---|---|
| Hope Burdolski | 2022 | Secondary Science Education |
| Elizabeth Mislan | 2022 | Uncrewed Aircraft Systems / Commercial Aviation |
| Sydney Menne | 2021 | Physics & Astrophysics / Mathematics |
| Michaela Neal | 2020 | Environmental Studies |
| Hannah Park | 2020 | Air Traffic Management / Airport Management |
| Emmelinne Miller | 2019 | Aeronautics / Air Traffic Management / UAS |
| Cristin Finnigan | 2018 | Space Studies |
| Sophie Orr | 2017 | Space Studies |
| Jennifer Grinsteiner | 2016 | Petroleum Engineering |
| Marika Diepenbroek | 2015 | Commercial Aviation / Mathematics |
| Janelle Hakala | 2015 | Atmospheric Sciences |
| Haylee Archer | 2014 | Physics |
| Heather Jacobson | 2008 | Chemical Engineering |
| Rebecca Bahnmiller | 2006 | Astrophysics |
| Mikayla Tafee | 2005 | Atmospheric Sciences |
| Lisa Maria Geschwill | 2004 | Mechanical Engineering |
| Candyce Hecker | 2004 | Mathematics |
| April Moore | 2002 | Chemical Engineering / Psychology |
FAQs about the Pearl I. Young Scholarship
Q: What is the purpose of the Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award?
The Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award aims to honor the legacy of Pearl I. Young by supporting and empowering female students at the University of North Dakota pursuing education in STEM fields. It seeks to encourage the next generation of women in science and foster their passion for space-related research.
Q: How much is the Pearl I. Young Scholarship worth?
The Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award provides a scholarship worth $2500 to the selected female student at the University of North Dakota.
Q: Can international students apply for the Pearl I. Young Scholarship?
No, the Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award is only available to American citizens attending the University of North Dakota.
Q: What majors are eligible for the Pearl I. Young Scholarship?
The Pearl I. Young Scholarship is open to students majoring in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) or STEM Education fields at the University of North Dakota.
Q: How can I apply for the Pearl I. Young Scholarship?
To apply for the Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award, interested candidates must visit the official scholarship link at https://ndspacegrant.und.edu/college-students/scholarships/pearl-i-young.html and follow the provided application guidance.
Q: When is the annual due date for the Pearl I. Young Scholarship?
The annual due date for the Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award applications is on February 15th.
Conclusion
The Pearl I. Young Scholarship is more than just a financial award; it represents a legacy of female empowerment and scientific excellence. Named after a remarkable trailblazer, this prestigious scholarship serves as a beacon of inspiration for female students at the University of North Dakota, encouraging them to pursue their dreams in STEM fields and make meaningful contributions to science and research. By supporting the Pearl I. Young Space Grant Award, the North Dakota Space Grant Consortium honors the memory of a brilliant scientist and ensures that her legacy continues to shape the future of women in STEM. If you are a female student at UND, with a passion for science and space exploration, take this opportunity to be a part of something extraordinary and apply for the Pearl I. Young Scholarship.