Andrea Michelle Sperka Scholarship

This scholarship, made possible by the generosity of Michael T. and Carol L. Sperka, honors the memory of Andrea Michelle Sperka. Andrea was a senior in 2007 when she was tragically killed in an automobile accident in Botswana after completing her studies abroad at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Throughout her undergraduate years, Andrea carried a demanding academic schedule while working to help meet her educational costs.

In addition, Andrea often served as a volunteer, working with homeless children in Madison and in a township in South Africa. Andrea said, “Studying sociology helped me better understand the impact of a person’s conditions on their life chances…” She also acknowledged, “My sociology degree has challenged my pre-existing ideas about society and individuals, and made me confident in my ability to question the world around me and realize the possibility for change.”

Eligibility Criteria
Open to Juniors and Seniors majoring in Sociology.

Selection Criteria
Applicants should show a commitment to working on behalf of others (through paid employment or volunteer service) and academic merit.

Conditions of Award
Applicants must submit a personal statement and a writing sample from a UW-Madison Sociology course. In addition, someone at your service venue must provide a recommendation that speaks about your service experience.