Freedom Studies Scholars

Being a Freedom Studies Scholar

As a Freedom Studies Scholar, you will:

• Receive $2500 per semester in financial aid (note: students already on full or partial scholarship are also encouraged to apply; students are not required to accept any scholarship aid, and students may accept smaller scholarships)
• Take specially created courses related to American Freedom, particularly the American founding
• Engage in informal learning through discussions at both formal dinners and informal gatherings
• Attend lectures featuring preeminent scholars
• Travel to special events
• Be alerted to internships, fellowships, or scholarships suited to your interests
• Read from the great works of the Western intellectual tradition
• Learn the art of skillful debate through participation in educated and open-minded discussion
• Meet officials, politicians, scholars, and leaders who are interested in our mission.

Expectations for Freedom Studies Scholars

To serve as a Freedom Studies scholar, students must meet the following conditions:

• During either their first or second semester as a Freedom Studies Scholar, students are encouraged to take Freedom Studies 101 the first semester of they serve as a Freedom Scholar.
• During their second, third, and fourth semesters as Freedom Studies Scholars, students must be enrolled in at least one course that counts towards completion of the University of Mississippi Minor in Freedom Studies.
• During each semester in which they are scholars, students are expected to maintain a 3.0 GPA.
• Scholars are expected to participate actively in the intellectual life of the Declaration Center (e.g. participate in the Declaration Center reading group, Declaration Center events, and other special receptions hosted by the Declaration Center).

How to Apply:

1. Applicants will need to be full time students enrolled in UM classes for Fall 2026. Both current students and incoming students are welcome to apply!
2. Applicants should submit all applications materials to freedom@olemiss.edu by August 1, 2026. Early applications are welcome. Students enrolled in Freedom Studies 101 for Fall 2026 will be given special consideration.
3. Your application email, with “Freedom Studies Scholar Application” in the subject line, should include the following:
   1. Your full name, your student ID#, and your contact information
   2. A short essay (500–1000 words) reflecting on the meaning of the following Benjamin Franklin quotation: “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety”
   3. A resume that includes descriptions of your educational background, work history, and involvement in extra-curricular activities
   4. An unofficial transcript of all university or college level courses taken (incoming Freshman can provide a list of any AP courses or dual-credit courses taken)
   5. A letter of recommendation from an instructor
   6. An indication of how much Scholarship money is being sought: awardees may request up to $2500 each semester they serve as a Freedom Studies Scholar for up to four semesters ($10,000 total), but can opt for receiving less than $2500.