HortScholars2025
Description
What is the AmericanHort Scholars program?
This program sets students in horticulture on a path to success by exposing them to the breadth of the horticulture industry, its opportunities, and its leaders at Cultivate. Each year, 6 students are chosen for this beyond-the-classroom experience - giving insight and awareness of the industry, its supply chain, and where they might find a home for their passion.
As a HortScholar, you'll gain:
Industry Insights: Network with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge trends, and discover groundbreaking innovations.
Hands-On Experience: Volunteer behind-the-scenes at Cultivate, attend industry-leading education sessions, and explore the latest products and services on the show floor.
Career Advancement: Gain valuable experience and connections to launch your career – exploring job and internship opportunities within the horticulture industry.
Expand Your Horizons: Discover a wide range of career paths and opportunities within the horticulture industry that you may not have considered before.
Who's Eligible? Students currently studying at any North American institution pursuing degrees or certificates in ornamental horticulture, floriculture, or related fields, whether as part of an undergraduate, graduate, or 2-year program.
What You'll Get:
All-Access Pass to Cultivate'25
Complimentary lodging and meals
Exclusive networking opportunities
Mentorship from industry experts
Opportunities to present on a horticulture topic of your choice and share your own expertise with attendees
Free one-year AmericanHort Student Membership – providing access to year-round education, news, and more
What does participation entail? HortScholars will arrive onsite early for Cultivate set-up and participate during the event July 8-15. Scholars are responsible for their own transportation to and from Columbus, Ohio for the event. AmericanHort will cover meals and housing costs once you arrive.
In addition to volunteering during set-up, Scholars will have a chance to explore the expansive trade show floor, attend education sessions, participate in planning networking opportunities, and other designated activities. HortScholars will also prepare a 5 minute Ignite presentation on a topic of their choice, providing a unique speaking opportunity during Cultivate. In the past, the HortScholars have been asked to participate in student-led panel discussions as well.
Prior to the event, we will schedule several meetings with the chosen participants and representatives from AmericanHort to discuss details, prepare your presentation, and answer questions you may have.
Selection Process
November 2024: applications open
Application includes:
Resume
Two Letters of Recommendation
Completed application form and open-ended questions
January 31, 2025: Applications Due
March 7, 2025: HortScholar Finalists Notified
Finalists will be asked to submit a brief video (roughly 1 minute) answering a final question posed by the selection committee.
We encourage finalists to showcase their creativity and personality in this video.
Early April, 2025: All HortScholars notified
April – June, 2025:
Final HortScholars to provide their bios and travel details
Introduction phone call with the group
Planning and practice calls for Ignite presentations
July 8-15, 2025:
HortShcolars arrive at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio*
Scholars will volunteer with set-up and decorations prior to participating in the event itself
*Students are responsible for making their own travel arrangements to and from Columbus
