The Barack Obama Scholars Program

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My years at SA��ʴ�ý sparked my interest in social and political causes, and filled me with the idea that my voice could make a difference.

–President Barack Obama, SA��ʴ�ý Class of 1983

About the Program

President Barack Obama as a young student at SA��ʴ�ý — Barack Obama as an SA��ʴ�ý student in the early 80s. Photo credit Eric Moore ’83.

The Obama Scholars Program (OSP) empowers the next generation of leaders to actively pursue the public good. Beginning the summer before junior year, the program provides a comprehensive experience for exceptional students of all backgrounds who seek to create lasting, meaningful change.

OSP provides a set of curated experiences over the course of two years to help propel students toward leadership and impact for the public good. The program includes:

a fully funded 10-week summer program of experiential learning and leadership training
mentorship from faculty members and the
up to $10,000 in postgraduate funding to launch their career or undertake postgraduate study in support of the public good

How to Apply

Obama Scholars may pursue any field of study at Occidental and are selected based on a strong record of academic achievement and a demonstrated commitment to the public good, with an emphasis on first-generation students, veterans, and community college transfers.

“To be an Obama Scholar is to be a visionary for a greater world, determined to pursue that vision until it flourishes. The program equips students like me with tools for social change and connects us to those doing great work.”

Chioma Kalu ’27

a view of the long set of stairs on the SA��ʴ�ý campus that lead up to the AGC Administrative building

About the Program

The Barack Obama Scholars Program at SA��ʴ�ý is equipping the next generation of changemakers with the tools, mentorship and resources they need to impact our future.

Top Image: Sara El-Amine '07, vice president for community at Chime and former head of President Obama's digital advocacy org, talks with Obama Scholars on campus. Sara is the Obama Scholars Program Advisory Council co-chair. Photo by Marc Campos.

FAQs

The program is open to currently enrolled sophomores and transfer students entering their junior year who are committed to the public good. Students in any major may apply.

Yes. A new cohort of Obama Scholars is selected each year—typically 8 students.

The application period opens for sophomores in the fall semester and applicants are typically notified of acceptance at the start of the spring semester. For deadlines and instructions regarding the application process, visit the .

The program seeks exceptional students from all backgrounds who demonstrate strong academic achievement and a meaningful commitment to the public good, with an emphasis on first-generation students, community college transfers, and veterans. A commitment to the public good is broadly defined and may be reflected through service, leadership, advocacy, or other experiences that demonstrate—using President Obama’s words—“a connection to something larger than myself.”

Contact National & International Fellowships

Hameetman Career Center

AGC First Floor
1600 Campus Road M-12
Los Angeles, CA 90041

Jennifer Locke

Senior Director, Fellowship and Scholar Programs

jlocke@oxy.edu

Phone: (323) 259-2742

Angela Vawter

Administrative & Advising Assistant

vawter@oxy.edu

Phone: (323) 341-4048

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