Student Travel Grants
Grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 for undergraduate and graduate high-impact experiences
The College of Sciences travel grant initiative aims to advance the academic and professional development of sciences graduate and undergraduate students by funding learning experiences outside the traditional classroom. Applications are accepted continuously and reviewed quarterly.
About the Donors
Daniel L. Solomon, dean emeritus of the College of Sciences, served with distinction for more than 30 years. A professor of statistics and a visionary academic leader, he was the founding dean of the College of Sciences (2013–2015) after leading the former College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences for 13 years. His research applied mathematical and statistical methods to ecological systems, while his leadership advanced inclusion, innovative teaching and public engagement in science. Solomon championed graduate education and broadened access to STEM fields, leaving a legacy of inclusive excellence and transformative learning across the university.
Ray Carnes Jr. is a proud alumnus of NC State. Carnes has built a distinguished career at the forefront of software engineering, digital aviation and complex systems development. His experience includes nearly 27 years at Boeing and its subsidiary, Jeppesen, where he served in numerous executive roles, including chief architect. Now the CEO of his own consulting firm, Lava Rock Software, he continues to innovate in the fields of machine learning and data science. His professional journey demonstrates the power of applying scientific and technical knowledge to solve real-world challenges. Carnes hopes this gift will empower the next generation of scientists and leaders from the College of Sciences, giving them the resources to chase the pivotal opportunities that will launch their careers.
Application Steps
- Before applying, students must consult with their designated university financial aid counselor. This ensures that receiving a travel award will not negatively impact your existing financial aid package.
- To complete the application, you will need to provide a description of your travel opportunity, a high-level budget breakdown, and a brief personal statement detailing how this trip advances your academic or professional goals.
- Applicants will be notified of the selection committee’s decision via email. The notification will be sent from a representative of the selection committee.
- Awarded funds will be processed as a voucher by the College of Sciences. Recipients will receive detailed instructions on how to access their funds in their award notification email.
Eligible Travel Activities
- Study Abroad: NC State’s credit-bearing study abroad programs.
- Conferences & Networking: Registration, travel and lodging to present research or network with professional groups (e.g., meeting with national societies like ACS, APS, JSM, AGU).
- Field Research & Study: Domestic or international field work, including institutional partnerships (like CMAST or local research museums) and departmental trips.
- Service Learning: University-sponsored programs (like Alternative Service Breaks) or independent, science-aligned international service trips.
Post-Award Requirements
Award recipients are expected to submit at least two photos from their travels and a brief impact statement or thank-you letter. These reflections allow the College of Sciences to demonstrate the ongoing value of travel funding to our community supporters.
Contact cos-scholarships@ncsu.edu with any questions.