The Melly Scholarship
A TRANSFORMATIONAL SCHOLAR EXPERIENCE
The Melly Scholarship is Hobart and William Smith’s most prestigious award, created to honor the exceptional legacy of Tom Melly ’52. Known for his ambition, fortitude and lifelong passion for learning, Tom Melly rose to the top of the finance world while remaining grounded in integrity, curiosity and a deep commitment to giving back.
Each year, 15–20 outstanding students are named Melly Scholars and awarded $46,000 annually in merit aid — totaling $184,000 over four years. This support is guaranteed, provided students remain in good academic and social standing.
Cohort
AN EDUCATION AS DISTINCTIVE AS THEIR AMBITIONS.
Melly Scholars join a dynamic program designed for students with entrepreneurial mindsets and interests in fields such as finance, economics, business, AI, technology, mathematics and computer science. Their experience is defined by exclusive opportunities that accelerate growth, leadership and impact:
The Melly Scholars Cohort
- Cohort-based fellowship led by the Executive Director of the Melly Institute with leadership training, distinguished guest speakers and curated experiences aligned with academic and career goals.
- Exposure to leadership summits, conferences, partner organizations or Career Treks in cities such as New York, Boston and Washington, D.C.
Professional Coaching and Mentorship
- Dedicated career counseling beginning the summer before the first year.
- One-on-one mentorship from accomplished HWS alumni across industries in partnership with the Executive Director and the Salisbury Center staff.
Guaranteed Global Experience
- Every Scholar is guaranteed a study abroad experience provided they meet the standards set by HWS’ Center for Global Education.
Exclusive Engagement Series
- Small, intimate gatherings with faculty, staff, community leaders and visiting speakers throughout the semester.
Laptop and Software
- Each Melly Scholar is provided with a laptop and cutting-edge software tailored to academic pursuits.
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR
Melly Scholars are high achievers, innovators, leaders, and difference-makers with extraordinary character, vision, drive, and a love of learning. They pursue interests in fields such as finance, economics, business, AI, technology, mathematics and computer science. Melly Scholars demonstrate:
Academic Achievement – Intellectual curiosity, dedication and capacity for excellence.
Innovation & Initiative – Creative problem-solving and original thinking.
Leadership & Impact – Meaningful contributions that strengthen schools, organizations or communities.
Global Engagement – A broadened worldview shaped by travel, cross-cultural experiences or international study.
Service Commitment – A genuine dedication to giving back.
Purpose & Drive – Clear goals supported by resilience, passion and focus.
HOW TO APPLY
To access the Melly Scholarship application, you must have already applied for admission to Hobart and William Smith. The due date for the scholarship application aligns with your admissions deadline (November 15 for Early Action/Early Decision, February 1 for Regular Decision). Strong preference is given to candidates who apply Early Action or Early Decision.
Applicants will:
Be invited to participate in an on-campus interview (or virtual if travel is not possible).
Write a 500–750 word essay describing a time when you identified a significant challenge, opportunity or unmet need within a community, organization or group, and took the initiative to address it. In your essay, please:
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- Describe the situation and the context.
- Explain the actions you took to address the issue.
- Discuss any obstacles or challenges you encountered along the way.
- Share the outcome of your efforts.
- Reflect on what you learned about leadership through this experience.