The Fran Hooper Scholarship may be awarded to an applicant studying rail engineering with the intent to pursue a career in public transportation, with preference given to a qualified woman applicant. Applicants should demonstrate a continued interest in a career in the public transportation industry, high academic achievement, and need for financial assistance. Applicants must be college students or those seeking advanced degrees. All returning applicants must be sponsored by an APTA member organization or APTA member assignee. First time applicants are not required to obtain a sponsor. The selection criteria includes demonstrated interest in the public transportation industry as a career, academic achievement, essay content and quality, need for financial assistance, and involvement in extracurricular citizenship and leadership activities. Two letters of recommendation are required from new applicants, returning applicants are required to submit one letter only. Letters of recommendation should address the applicant's commitment, demonstrated interest, and career goals in public transportation. Recommendations must not come from relatives. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the American Public Transportation Foundation for more information.