TxDOT offers scholarships

High school students can apply for several existing and one new "Don't Mess with Texas" scholarships, offered by the Texas Department of Transportation.

For the new scholarship, students must write an essay about how to get a litterbag in every car.

The essay should focus on a creative and sustainable solution that would encourage Texans to obtain and use litterbags.

The winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

TxDOT also will continue its annual presentation of a $3,000 grand prize and a $1,000 second-prize scholarship. For these prizes, students must write an essay identifying a specific litter problem at their own school or community and the action they took to address it.

Scholarships are intended for high school seniors planning to pursue a two- or four-year degree at a Texas university or college. Essays must be from 300 to 350 words. Students also must submit a completed application and two letters of recommendation.

Students may apply for both scholarships, but separate essays must accompany each application.

To download an application or to find complete rules, visit www.DontMessWithTexas.org.

Completed applications, letters and essays must be postmarked by April 4 and mailed to Don't Mess with Texas Scholarship Program, in care of EnviroMedia Social Marketing, 1717 W. 6th St., Suite 400, Austin, TX 78703.