Apprentice Ecologist Initiative Scholarship
Offered by Nicodemus Wilderness Project
About This Scholarship
The Apprentice Ecologist Initiative, run by the nonprofit Nicodemus Wilderness Project since 1999, flips the usual scholarship formula: instead of writing about environmental issues, you go do something about one. Applicants lead or join a hands-on environmental stewardship project — a cleanup, habitat restoration, native planting, recycling drive — photograph it, and submit an essay about the experience along with a project photo.
The authors of the top three essays share $1,750 in scholarship awards (historically $1,000 for first place, $500 for second, and $250 for third), paid toward tuition and fees at an accredited college or university. Authors of the five best essays also receive project merchandise, and standout photos are featured in the organization's global gallery alongside tens of thousands of past participants.
The current cycle is open to high school juniors and seniors (the broader initiative welcomes youth ages 13-21 worldwide), and graduating seniors may still apply during the summer after graduation. There is no application fee.
Eligibility
- High school juniors and seniors for the current scholarship cycle (broader initiative open to youth ages 13-21); seniors may apply the summer after graduation
- Complete an environmental stewardship project you led or joined
- Submit an essay about the project plus at least one project photo, volunteer count, and hours
- No application fee; open to students from any state or country
How To Apply
- Organize or join an environmental stewardship project (cleanup, restoration, conservation) and photograph it in action.
- Write an essay describing the project, your role, and its impact.
- Email your essay, favorite project photo, project location, volunteer numbers, and contact information to the Nicodemus Wilderness Project by August 31.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of project counts for the Apprentice Ecologist scholarship?
Any genuine environmental stewardship effort works: litter cleanups, trail restoration, tree planting, invasive species removal, recycling programs, or wildlife habitat projects. Judges care about initiative and impact, not scale.
How much is the award?
The top three essays share $1,750 in scholarships — historically $1,000, $500, and $250 — paid toward tuition and fees at an accredited college or university.