Luminary Scholars FAQ
The UTRGV Luminary Scholarship program offers the brightest incoming college freshmen from all disciplines a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in an unparalleled learning environment. By sharing unique skills and perspectives with the greater RGV community, each Luminary Scholar can enhance the experience of a fellow student or community member at any point along the academic journey. Luminary Scholars and their accomplishments will ultimately help elevate UTRGV’s status as a global leader in higher education and serve as ambassadors for the university wherever their light shines.
How to Become a Scholar?
Interview
Arriving early is always best. We recommend you arrive at least 45 minutes before your interview to help avoid any unexpected delays. This will allow you time to settle in, fill out forms, participate in a photo shoot, and ask staff and current Luminary Scholars questions regarding UTRGV and the Luminary Scholarship. If you're running late, notify us as soon as possible and we can review options.
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
― Oscar Wilde
This is sound advice as you prepare for your interview. Your past accomplishments, goals, and insights you've gained about yourself and the world around you have prepared you for this interview. You were selected from an impressive group of candidates. It is now time to share your story with the committee.
Be comfortable and wear what you have readily available. Business casual attire is recommended.
We understand that unforeseen situations may arise, causing you to reschedule. In these instances, please get in touch with Lizeth Raya at lizeth.raya@utrgv.edu or (956) 665-2026 before your scheduled interview.
By this time, the interview committee members have a copy of your resume and transcript. There is no need to bring these items unless you would like them for your reference.
You're encouraged to have some questions ready for the panel. Prepare questions ahead of time that you might want to ask the committee. This can assist you in creating a more engaging interview process and help you learn more about what UTRGV can provide to you and your professional goals.
There is nothing else you need to do following the interview. The UTRGV Luminary selection committee will make final recommendations and announce finalists mid to late Spring.
Individuals selected as Luminary Scholars must pledge to work in the Rio Grande Valley for each year beyond their funded undergraduate education.
Decisions are final. There is no appeal process since there is a limit to the number of students selected per year. Due to the number of interviews conducted, critiques will also be unavailable.
If you require transportation to and from the interview site, we will be happy to provide this for you. Please contact Lizeth Raya at lizeth.raya@utrgv.edu or (956) 665-2026 to request this assistance and we will make the necessary arrangements.
Housing/Meals
Yes, staying in the dorms is a requirement for the first two years. The Luminary scholarship covers the cost of housing for a double occupancy room for the Fall and Spring semesters. Students wishing to stay in a single occupancy room can do so but will be responsible for covering the additional cost. Residence Life will make on-campus residence hall room assignments to Luminary Scholars upon receiving all housing applications.
To apply, log in to myUTRGV.EDU. Under APPLICATIONS, select the Housing icon and it will take you to the Housing Portal to start your application. Keep in mind that applying for housing is only required at the time Luminary Scholars are selected.
Award Amounts
The Luminary Scholarship covers tuition and fees for the completion of a bachelor's degree and post-graduate studies to include one of the following: a master's degree, doctoral program, or professional degree such as medical school. The program only covers one bachelor's degree and one graduate or professional degree.
The Luminary Scholarship does not cover the cost of books. Students are encouraged to apply for additional financial aid and scholarships to help cover the cost of books.
The Luminary scholarship covers the cost of housing for a double occupancy room for the Fall and Spring semesters. The cost of a meal plan is also covered.
We encourage students to continue to apply for scholarships and financial aid. Be sure to complete the FAFSA/TASFA since some scholarships use data obtained from the FAFSA/TASFA to make scholarship determinations. Seeking additional financial aid can also help cover other expenses such as books and transportation. Visit www.utrgv.edu/finaid for more financial aid information.
Renewal Requirements
Students are encouraged to pursue internship opportunities. Please consult with the scholarship office prior to accepting an internship to ensure it will not conflict with the scholarship program and receive appropriate approval.