The awards will be payable to the recipient’s university for the recipient’s use, and can only be used to fund educational pursuits.

Eligibility Requirements:

The PRSA Houston Scholarship Program awards various scholarships each year. Applicants can be a rising freshman, sophomore, junior, senior or graduate student. All scholarship applicants must be pursuing a degree in public relations or related fields and either must be from the southeast Texas Region or be attending a southeast Texas-area college/university.

Eligibility Requirements:

*Applicants must be from the southeast Texas Region or students attending a southeast Texas-area college/university.

*While not required, preference is given to students attending institutions that have official Public Relations Student Society of America Chapters sponsored by PRSA Houston. These institutions include the University of Houston, Sam Houston State University, Stephen F. Austin University, Texas A&M University, and Lamar University. Students attending other institutions are still encouraged to apply for the scholarship.

*Recipient must have a declared major in communications, public relations, journalism or marketing and have a desire to practice the public relations profession.

*Preferred minimum grade point average of 3.25 in the major and 3.00 overall.

Applications will be judged on the following criteria:

*Writing Sample
*Participation in professional organizations participation and leadership (preference given to PRSSA participation)
*GPA
*Community involvement, collegiate activities, letters of recommendation
*Work experience
*Financial need
*Finalists will be invited to an in-person interview. The final decision will be based on the combined application (50%) and interview scores (50%).

To apply for this award, please submit the following materials:

*The completed application form.
*Official transcript
*Letter of recommendation.
*Resume
*Writing assignment:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the field of public relations, from automated press releases to AI-driven sentiment analysis. As AI continues to evolve, PR professionals must navigate both opportunities and challenges in their industry.

In a 500-750 word essay, discuss the role of AI in public relations. Consider the following questions in your response:

• How is AI currently being used in PR, and what are its most significant benefits?
• What ethical concerns or potential downsides should PR professionals consider when using AI tools?
• How do you see the role of human creativity and strategy evolving alongside AI in the future of PR?

Use examples and, if possible, personal insights to support your perspective.

*Optional: Work Sample

Note: The use of AI is not allowed or permitted for this application

Application Deadline: May 4, 2025, 11:59 pm Eastern/10:59 pm Central.