1. An ideal candidate for the Truman Scholarship should have the following characteristics:
    a) a commitment to public service (This does not necessarily and exclusively mean working for the government; rather, public service is intended to denote any activity which involves… service. To phrase it differently, it implies interest in careers which are, in one way or another, “other-oriented”);
    b) a desire to become actively involved in society, i.e. to become an “engaged member of society” (NB: As Dean Maguire will tell you, "Do not forget to register to vote!");
    c) a concern with and interest in what happens in the "real" world, particularly with those political, economic, social and ethical issues which loom large on the agenda of the United States and of the world;
    d) leadership potential;
    e) a belief in the continued relevance of values.

2. In view of the above, a good candidate must demonstrate to have taken advantage of the opportunities for involvement which have been available to him/her outside of the classroom situation. Among the activities which can enhance a candidate's chances are participation in clubs with an explicit cultural, political or social content; internships; interesting summer jobs;
volunteer work; involvement with school newspapers; work for political campaigns; etc.

3. Of course, since a candidate must be familiar with what happens in the world, it is critical that he/she be a regular reader of a major national newspaper. Or at least, the candidate must be aware of the issues and events of national and international relevance.

4. The success of a student’s candidacy depends to a large degree on his/her (very short indeed) public policy essay. It is advisable to choose a contemporary topic or, at least, a topic that while requiring some historical discussion and narrative, has a contemporary relevance. In particular, the applicant must demonstrate familiarity with the ongoing debate on a given issue
(i.e. the different positions that are put forth by policy makers, analysts, etc.)

5. A public policy essay means that the applicant must, after having analyzed the ramifications and implications of a given topic, raise the question, What is to be done? Or, more specifically, what recommendations/solutions do you have to offer? (Policy recommendations must be realistic and feasible!)

6. Although the essay should not be like a typical research paper for a course, it must demonstrate familiarity with whatever material is available on the subject. Therefore, in addition to reading newspapers and journals, peruse "good" books on the subject you might find in the library and talk to individuals who have an expertise on the topic. (It is not improper to use the research and/or reading done for a course as a point of departure for the Truman essay). Pertinent references to books and articles are useful.

7. The essay must also contain an implicit or explicit indication of the student's sense of social awareness. This does not mean that the applicant must necessarily be a high-flying idealist; on the other hand, a concern with values and with ethical considerations is certainly welcome.

8. The other important part of the application process is the interview, at Holy Cross in order to receive the official nomination and, eventually, by representatives of the Truman Scholarship Foundation. Of course, there is no magic formula for an interview. However, many of the suggestions offered above --especially the ones concerning familiarity with what happens in the world-- are useful for the interview as well. In addition,
    a) develop a cogent definition of public service (or, What does it mean to be a public servant?);
    b) make sure that you are able to explain how your academic and "extra-curricular" background, values, and personality traits qualify you to become a Truman Scholar;
    c) be ready to discuss the broader implications of the topic of your policy paper. (For instance, if the topic is terrorism in the Mediterranean area, how does your presentation of the problem --as well as the policy recommendations you offer-- relate to the broader issue of American foreign policy towards thearea?)

9. Although no one will expect you --at the tender age of a sophomore-- to have a clear idea of the career path you want to pursue, it is important that you have a notion of the professional possibilities you intend to explore. More importantly, be prepared to discuss the ways in which you want to make a contribution to society.

10. At the risk of stating the obvious: this scholarship is named after President Harry S. Truman. Therefore, it would not be a bad idea to become familiar with his accomplishments and (at times quite controversial) decisions. (President Truman's Memoirs are available in every library).

* Maurizio Vannicelli was a faculty member in the Political Science Department at Holy Cross
until his premature death.
 

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