Research awards will be provided to qualified undergraduate students to create and implement a small research study of their own design that is directly related to their interests and career objectives in STEM-related studies supporting NASA Mission Directorates. The student may work alone or with a faculty or research staff advisor; however, the conceptualization and design of the project should be their own. Awards will emphasize effective student research and mentoring arrangements. Students from small colleges and universities, and from departments with newly developing space research infrastructure, are especially encouraged to apply. Proposal evaluation will be based on academic preparation and research promise. Applicants must be enrolled in, admitted to, or applied to any undergraduate program at a WSGC college or university. They must also be enrolled in a STEM program of study and demonstrate an interest in aerospace or supporting NASA's mission. The Consortium especially encourages applications from members of minority groups, women, and persons with disabilities. Two letters of recommendation must be submitted, one from a faculty member who advises you on your research related to this scholarship (or academic advisor or high school advisor for incoming freshmen) and one from another faculty member, employer, or aerospace professional of your choice. A research proposal must also be submitted containing the following: introduction or summary, background, proposed activities, and timeline. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.