When you look Scott Seitz in the eyes it is obvious that he is on a mission. His light blue eyes are windows to a well of determination, and it’s hard to imagine him leaving any task unfinished. For this reason, when Scott says he wants to use his life to bring about global education reform, you can be sure that this is a quest he has every intention of completing.
On Monday, March 15, Scott Seitz, a junior studying political science at Auburn University, will take a big step toward his dream when he interviews in Nashville, Tenn., as a finalist for the Truman Scholarship.
The Truman Scholarship Foundation awards the Truman Scholarship each year to 60 college juniors who are committed to careers in government, education, nonprofit advocacy and public service. The purpose of the scholarship is to provide these students with financial support for graduate study, leadership training and fellowship with other students who are committed to making a difference through public service.
“The application process is incredibly involved,” Scott says. “To earn my spot as a finalist I completed a 19-page application which included essay questions as well as a 500-word policy proposal.”
This year, the Foundation received 576 applications, and at this point Scott is one of 200 finalists. There are four other finalists from Alabama, and Scott is one of two finalists from Auburn University.
Scott’s desire to bring about international education reform is a result of his experiences traveling abroad. On a trip to Uganda he witnessed a thriving primary school system that recently eliminated school fees. In contrast, while in Mali, Scott saw the effects of a primary school system in which the attendance rate never surpasses 50 percent.
“If I were to receive the Truman Scholarship I would use the opportunity to pursue a graduate degree in foreign affairs,” Scott says. “I’ve always been passionate about global education reform. Today, over 75 million children aren’t receiving a primary school education (grades K-6). There are simple ways to increase attendance, but not enough is being.”
Scott is preparing for his upcoming interview by participating in mock interviews, researching the Truman Scholarship Foundation and studying the details of his policy proposal.
“I’ve heard that the interview process is vigorous. I know I’m going to be challenged, but I’m excited about the opportunity to share with them my vision for my future as well as my policy on global education reform.”
His determined eyes and strong build are contrasted perfectly by his gentle demeanor and compassionate lifestyle, he is beyond articulate and it’s obvious that he is driven by much more than selfish ambition. The Foundation would do well to award Scott with the honor of being a Truman Scholarship recipient. However, regardless of their decision, Scott has a plan and the world is better for it.
For more information on the Truman Scholarship Foundation visit their website,
www.truman.gov.
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