We are now accepting applications for the 2020 Underground Trojans Scholarship essay contest! Winner will be announced in June 2020.
Deadline: April 20, 2020
How Can I Apply?
Applicants are asked to prepare a creative essay (up to 1000 words) using the following writing prompt:
In a creative essay, describe and reflect on your transition from incarceration to education. Who or what motivated you to continue your education, and how did that impact you? In your essay, include anyone or anything that helped you throughout this process (i.e programs, college staff, teachers, mentors, family members, etc.). Lastly, consider how your personal experiences can further the discussion of prison education and/or college access for currently incarcerated and/or formerly incarcerated students.
Essay submissions at the top should include:
Your full name, phone number, and the name of the college you attend. By submitting an application, you give Underground Trojans express consent to confirm your admission and attendance by contacting the college.
To apply, send an email including the above information, your essay, and a copy of your unofficial transcript (usually obtained from admissions and records and sometimes other college personnel who have access to your records) to underground.trojans@usc.edu with the subject line:
Last Name, First Name - 2020 Underground Scholarship.


Who Can Apply?
The Underground Trojans is seeking applications from justice-involved California community college students (currently incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, system impacted, or any other term used to describe community college students with any sort of criminal record) who:
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Are currently enrolled in classes at a California community college
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Have already completed a minimum of 9 units
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Age 18 and older
Your email must include the following:
- Essay with the above information ("How Can I Apply")
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Copy of your unofficial transcripts
Note: if any of the requested information is inapplicable to you, or if applications are on behalf of someone else (with their essay and college information), please let us know with your submission.
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Disclaimer
By submitting an application to Underground Trojans you certify that all the information you have provided is accurate and complete. You agree to transfer all rights and ownership of your essay and all submitted information to Underground Trojans, whether or not you are selected as a winner. You also agree that your name, essay, and award amount may be used on our website, through announcements, or articles (i.e. social media, newsletter, etc.) issued by Underground Trojans. If you would like to remain anonymous whenever Underground Trojans publishes your essay you must request this in your initial submission.
The selection of winners is entirely at the discretion of Underground Trojans. Winners will be contacted via the email address that was used to submit the application.