OWHL Scholars Program 2024-2025: Frequently Asked Questions

When is the application due? 

• No later than 8:00 PM on May 5, 2024 (no exceptions) 

How many people are you accepting into the program? 

• Up to 6 projects

How long will the application take? 

• That depends. Please read through all the application components before the due date so that you can put your best foot forward. The application has two essays and questions that will take time. Additionally, you will have to submit a project proposal. In general we recommend 3-4 hours at least. Please see information about the title and project proposal below.

What do I do if I do not have a title for my for my project? 

• Your application is a pitch! If you are accepted, you will do lots of research on your topic. That process may change the title of your project. Consider this title a “working” title. 

What should I include in my project proposal? 

• Your project proposal should include your name:
  • your project's proposed title;  
  • a 500-word abstract describing the scope of your project; 
  • the research you plan to do and a concrete idea of what your final product will be;
  • and five preliminary sources that have informed your project in Chicago Manual of Style.

Who will decide if my application is accepted? 

• The Selection Committee. The Selection Committee members include members from the library team and is headed by the Program Director, Ms. Torres Hoven.

Do I have to attend the OWHL Scholars Open House or meet with a librarian before I submit my application?

• No. However, it will increase the chances of you being accepted into the program because we can help you strengthen your application. All but two of the OWHL Scholars for the 2023-2024 met with a librarian ahead of time.

Can I see examples of other OWHL Scholar Projects?

• The 2023-2024 cohort is finishing their projects now and will conclude their work at a OWHL Scholars Symposium on May 17. You may reach out to Ms. Torres Hoven directly to see examples. A list of their topics and the format of their final product is included on the Topic Ideas & Final Product tab of this libguide.

Does my final product have to be a research paper?

• All OWHL Scholars should work with their mentors to decide the best way to create a final product and present their final product to the community. Some students may choose to author a scholarly paper and have a 30-minute presentation, while others may take a different path (see below).
• Your final product could be a graphic novel, a Zine, a children's book, a video game, a film, an art exhibit, a podcast series, an oral history, or a display! There are many different formats that we encourage. Scholarship does not always have to be a paper. Please work with your library mentor and the Program Director to decide what is the best option for your project.

What can I do as an alternative to a 30-minute presentation? 

• All OWHL Scholars will present their final product in one form or another. Scholars may choose to present their work on a panel, a Ted Talk or Lightning Talk, a poster presentation, and more! Your mentor will help you think creatively about this. 

Do I get to select my library mentor?

• No. The selection committee will match projects with the appropriate library mentor. 

Have more questions?

• Please reach out to Ms. Torres Hoven.