Patman Scholars show exemplary promise to become civic leaders and receive a scholarship that supports experiential learning opportunities and internships.
The Patman Center builds the next generation of public leaders
The $10,000 Patman Scholarships offer financial support for students seeking internships with elected officials, state legislatures, the U.S. Congress, State Governor’s offices, the Office of the President, and other civic leaders.
We will select Scholars based on their promise as leaders, as revealed in their self-statements, academic performance, and internship proposal.
Check back here for important dates & deadlines
Applications accepted on a rolling basis
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis to make up the 2025 cohort. The first round of applications will be reviewed the first week in December 2024. Please have all materials submitted by December 1, 2024 to be considered then. The second round of reviews will happen in January. Please have all materials submitted no later than January 19, 2025.
We welcome students who are interning during the Texas Legislative Session to apply once they have received an offer letter from an internship.
Info Session: November 11, 2024
An online info session. Come ask questions and learn more about the Patman Scholarship! 12:30 - 1:00 pm. RSVP for zoom link.
Info Session: November 13, 2024
Join us for free pizza and an info session about the Patman Scholarship. 12:30 - 1:00 pm. SRH 3.122. RSVP required.
Applications close: April 2025
Interviews with finalists on a rolling basis
Scholars’ internships: January 2025 – August 2025
Scholars’ internship reflection paper due: September 2025
Scholars honored at Leadership Symposium: Fall 2025
Patman Scholars News
Application Information
Applications Accepted on a Rolling Basis
Applications for the first round of reviews are due December 1, 2024. Applications for the second round of reviews are due January 19, 2025.
It is best to apply for the Patman Scholarship once you have received an offer letter from an internship placement.
To apply for the Patman Scholarship, please email LBJPatmanCenter@austin.utexas.edu all of the following:
Please include in your email message body:
- Name
- UT EID
- Phone
- Program (MPAff, MGPS etc.)
- Transcript Consent
Please attach the following to your email (see more information below):
- Personal and Internship Statement
- Mentorship Statement
- Financial Statement
- Resume
- Offer letter from your internship placement
Letter of Recommendations
All letters should be emailed from their author directly to The Patman Center at LBJPatmanCenter@austin.utexas.edu. Letters sent in by students will not be accepted.
Transcript Consent
Do you consent to OSAA releasing your academic information to the Patman Center? Please include in email message body either:
- (Yes) I consent to OSAA releasing my academic information. With consent, we will work with OSAA to get your transcript.
- (No) I do not consent to OSAA releasing my academic information.
Personal and Internship Statement
Applicants should submit a 1-2 page statement answering the following questions:
What has motivated you to pursue a career in public service and/or civic leadership?
What type of internship will you pursue? In what ways do you expect to grow from the experience?
Mentorship Statement
Each Patman Scholar will be paired with a Senior Fellow who will serve as a mentor. Applicants should submit a 1-2 paragraph statement answering the following questions:
What sort of mentor would you be looking for? Who would be an ideal mentor for you?
(Please do not ask for specific mentors. We are looking for a general idea of who might be a good match).
Letter of Recommendation
Applicants should identify a former employer or academic professor to submit a 1-2 page statement of support indicating in what ways the applicant is ready for the internship opportunity and professionally prepared to use the internship to its fullest potential.
Please ask them to address your potential as a leader and the particular leadership qualities that set you apart from other applicants.
Financial Need Statement
Applicants should offer a 1-2 paragraph overview of how this financial award will support you.
Would you be able to participate in your internship without financial support? If so, why or why not.
Resume
Applicants should submit an overview of their past professional experiences, including any relevant volunteerism or civic service.
Offer Letter
Students should submit an offer letter from their internship along with their application.
Selection Committee
A combination of The Patman Center Advisory Board Members, LBJ faculty/staff, and members from UT Law School community will make the selections of the Scholars.