Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship
California State University Foundation
Created in honor of Jim Sanders, the Jim Sanders Media and Leadership scholarship aims to support the leaders of today and tomorrow among the California State University student population, who have an interest in journalism, media, or communication.
The scholarship is open to students of California State University who hold a student status during the scholarship period and are interested in pursuing a career in news media. Students who are interested in pursuing a career in engineering, graphics design, production, etc. within the news media industry are also eligible to apply.
Applicants are required to submit an application information form, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a completed application checklist through the campus’ Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships to the CSU Foundation.
Scholarship Summary
Created in honor of Jim Sanders, the Jim Sanders Media and Leadership scholarship aims to support the leaders of today and tomorrow among the California State University student population, who have an interest in journalism, media, or communication.
The scholarship is open to students of California State University who hold a student status during the scholarship period and are interested in pursuing a career in news media. Students who are interested in pursuing a career in engineering, graphics design, production, etc. within the news media industry are also eligible to apply.
Applicants are required to submit an application information form, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a completed application checklist through the campus’ Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships to the CSU Foundation.
Eligibility Requirements
- Eligible Grade: Undergraduate
- Maximum Age: Any
- Required GPA: 4.0
- Geographic Eligibility: California
- Gender: Any
- Race/Ethnicity: Any
Key Information of Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship
Study Details
Area of Study
- Audiology
- Communications
- Healthcare
- Journalism
- Photojournalism
Country of Study
United States
Specific Schools
California State University
Application Requirements
Here’s what you need to submit besides your application.
- Essay
- Grade transcript
Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship Timeline
January 2024
Applications Opening Date
Applications open in the beginning of the year.
March 28, 2024
Applications Deadline
The submission deadline is in March.
How to ace the Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship
Review before submission
Ensure that all required documents are completed and verified before mailing them to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
Show demonstrable interest
Your personal essay should thoroughly present your reasons behind your interest in a career in journalism, media, or communications and how you consider yourself a leader. Do well to keep your essay brief.
Get stellar recommendations
The application process requires at least one letter of recommendation from someone who taught you. Reach out to who you would like to write your recommendation letters early and have them focus on your career interest.
Become a leader
The scholarship seeks to not just support students interested in a career in news media, but also lead. Before applying, get involved in activities or organizations that would allow you to lead, take risks, be creative, have a sense of humor, and challenge the status quo.
How the Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship is Judged
The scholarship involves a nomination process where the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships forward application packets to the CSU Foundation. The foundation judges applicants based on their interest in pursuing a career in journalism, media, or communication and the leadership qualities they possess.
Why We Love the Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship
Promotes journalism
Students who are studying journalism, media, or communication-related degrees are encouraged to apply. Increasing the pool of trained and educated people working towards a sustainable future is always a plus.
Considers financial need
Financial constraints often prevent people from getting a news media career. Financial aid is one of the factors for selection.
Application process is easy
The application process involves filling out a form and submitting a brief essay for you to be considered.
5 Facts About the Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship
Named after Jim Sanders
Jim Sanders served as news director at television stations in San Diego, San Francisco, and Ohio.
CSU Systemwide Scholarships
The CSU Systemwide Scholarship Program offers financial assistance to students across the CSU through over 10 different scholarship awards, of which the Jim Sanders Media and Leadership Scholarship is a part.
CSU Foundation
Founded in 1962, the CSU Foundation's mission is to enhance the educational excellence of California State University in teaching, learning, community service, and applied research.
Nominees are eligible for other awards
The CSU currently offers five endowments to students who were not selected as the CSU Trustees’ Award nominees but met one of the endowment requirements.
Submit in PDF format
Applications are required to be submitted in one PDF document and sent by email. Applicants may be rejected if applications are sent in any other formats.
