RURAL ALASKA HONORS INSTITUTE (RAHI)
SEEKS STUDENT APPLICANTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 22, 1997

Fairbanks, Alaska - Applications are due March 31 for the Rural Alaska Honors Institute's (RAHI) popular summer academic program at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Only 46 rural junior and senior high school students will be chosen from the pool of applicants to attend the program May 24 - July 4. Students are selected based on their academic achievement and a strong commitment to earn a college degree. UAF's RAHI program is aimed primarily at rural Alaska Native students, however, others may also apply.

Qualified students earn eight to 10 college credits for courses in writing, study skills, biology, Alaska Native studies, rural development, Internet technology and Native dance. Students may also take swimming as a non-credit course. Credits earned count toward a bachelor's degree.

RAHI prepares students for college through a rigorous academic program coupled with a culturally based residence program. According to Program Coordinator Jim Kowalsky RAHI helps students discover personal strengths and develop strategies for college success.

"We have very high expectations for our students, but we also offer a lot of individualized encouragement and assistance to enable students to reach those expectations," Kowalsky said.

Over 600 students have participated in the program since it began 14 years ago. Many are in the process of earning degrees or have completed degrees and have gone into professional careers, Kowalsky said.

"Personal growth, exploring career choices, developing support networks with other students, celebrating the Native cultures of Alaska and learning how to live in the college environment are all part of the RAHI experience," Kowalsky said.

Applicants will receive a full scholarship that will cover all costs associated with attending the program, including travel to Fairbanks.

Application packets have been mailed to all rural schools, Native organizations and corporations, and interested individuals. Students should see their school counselor or principal for an application or they may request applications by calling RAHI at 1-800-478-6886 in Alaska or e-mail to: <fyrahi@aurora.alaska.edu>

Information can also be obtained by calling (907) 478-6886, or writing to RAHI Box 756305, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, Alaska, 99775-6305.

Students can also submit applications over the Internet through the RAHI homepage at: < http://www.uaf.edu/rahi/index.html>

CONTACT: RAHI Program Director Jim Kowalksy (907) 474-6886, or by email: fyrahi@aurora.alaska.edu.

JCS/1-22-97/97-046