Rowdy Corps Community Scholars – Civic and Community-Engaged Leadership

What is the Rowdy Corps Community Scholars Program?

The Rowdy Corps Community Scholars is a community-based federal work study program that connects UTSA students with some of San Antonio’s leading changemakers. The Rowdy Corps Community Scholars program provides the opportunity for work study eligible students to apply their skills and learning in real world settings. Participating students undergo experiential community engaged learning with critical reflective analysis, focused leadership and professional development trainings to prepare students for life after graduation. Students have the opportunity to attend community networking events and participate in community engaged learning projects outside of the university and with community.

1. How do I know if I am eligible to join Rowdy Corps Community Scholars?

To be eligible, you must be a recipient of college work study funding and meet the qualifications established for Satisfactory Academic Progress. Check your work study eligibility by logging onto your ASAP account and view your Financial Aid Award Letter. To be considered for work study funding, you must designate interest in work study when you complete your annual FAFSA.

Work study eligibility is a requirement but does not guarantee admittance to the Rowdy Corps program. Students must also submit an application.

Due to a limited number of Rowdy Corps Community Scholars positions approved each academic year, applicants will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling “first come, first served” basis. Interested parties are encouraged to apply as early as possible to assure consideration for a spot in the Rowdy Corps Community Scholars program. Individual program applications will be reviewed and addressed within two weeks of submission.

2. Can I select the agency for which I can apply?

You have the opportunity to review and select from the list of community partners and apply to each position individually. However, keep in mind program staff may offer additional suggestions for available positions upon reviewing your application and resume. Interviews are scheduled with agency site supervisors to determine the quality of fit and matches will be based on a combination in consideration of student skills and agency/organizational needs.

3. Are there any commitments?

Rowdy Corps Community Scholars are expected to work no less than 12 hours/week and no more than 19 hours/week over the span of the academic year. Students are also required to attend mandatory reflection and leadership training sessions throughout the academic year. Students are highly encouraged to make a two-year commitment to the program.

4. How do I get paid?

Rowdy Corps Community Scholars earn the current rate of $11.50 per hour and checks are processed on a bi-weekly basis through the university.

Tips for remaining eligible for Rowdy Corps:

Maintain good academic standing at UTSA
Follow student guidelines established for work-study funding
Remain enrolled for a minimum of 6 credit hours per semester
Attend all mandatory Rowdy Corps Community Scholars reflection sessions and trainings
Work no more than 19 hours/week at your designated agency during regular school days
Monitor your hours and payroll to assure that you do not exceed your allocated work-study funds
To continue work at your Rowdy Corps Community Partner site from one year to the next, you must maintain Center for Civic Engagement approval and work-study eligibility
Consider linking your site assignment with your coursework
Inquire about the Community Leadership Certificate and how you can connect your coursework with your site placement as a Rowdy Corps Community Scholar to earn the certificate.

How to Apply?

Rowdy Corps Community Scholar and Political Science Major Allison Martinez, City Council District 5

*Multiple positions open for Fall 2023 – Spring 2024*

Eligible students must submit a Rowdy Corps Community Scholars Program application for Fall 2023 along with a copy of the current class schedule and proof of Financial Aid work study award.

Community Partners

If you wish to become a Rowdy Corps Community Partner, please email engagedlearning@utsa.edu with subject line: “Community Partner Application”

The Center for Civic Engagement staff along with the Rowdy Corps Program Coordinator will review applications as openings becomes available.

Frequently asked questions for community partners.

***Rowdy Corps Community Partner application for Academic Year soon 2023-2024 will open soon***

Questions?

If you have any questions about this program please email engagedlearning@utsa.edu or call 210-458-2277.