Since its creation in 1962, the University of Alabama’s Capstone Men and Women has been a key element of the University’s public relations program. At the beginning of each spring semester applications are accepted for students who would like to join this group of official UA ambassadors.

This year applications are due Friday Jan. 29 by noon to 284 Rose Administration Building.

In order to apply students have to meet a list of requirements including having a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0, being enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student with second semester freshman standing, willingness to memorize large amounts of information regarding the University and more. For a full list of requirements visit cmw.ua.edu.

After applying applicants will be required to attend a convocation on Sunday Jan. 31 at 6 p.m. in 120 Farrah Hall. This convocation will provide applicants with information regarding the CMW selection process. Attendance is mandatory. Absence from the convocation will disqualify an applicant.

Following convocation the first round of interviews conducted by the CMW selection committee will take place from Feb. 2-4, followed by a second round on Feb. 9. Applicants will be notified shortly thereafter if they were selected for the group.

Current members must reapply as well, as only members who are elected to an officer position are guaranteed a spot.

Last year CMW received more than 190 applications and 35 people were selected. There is not a set number of new members who will be selected, nor is there a set male to female ratio.

Most UA students know Capstone Men and Women as the people who give tours for prospective students, but they perform many other tasks as well. These student ambassadors assist the University president’s office, the admissions office, and UA alumni during events throughout the year.

According to CMW advisor Lucy Arnold Sikes, members usually commit about five to ten hours a week, including weekly meetings, walking tours, and events.

“People should apply because it is a unique opportunity to give back to the University. Most Capstone alumni say the program was the highlight of their college experience,” Sikes said.

Applicants are reminded that CMW is different from the ambassador programs. The ambassador programs have specialized student ambassadors representing a certain college within the University. Capstone Men and Women represent the University as a whole, showing prospective students and other visitors the big picture.

Dan Shelton, a junior math major with a Blount Liberal Arts minor is the incoming CMW president. Shelton has been a member for three years now and said that one of the best parts about CMW is the group of people involved.

“They are bar none some of the best people you’ll be around,” Shelton said.

Shelton believes students should apply for CMW because it is a very unique experience. His advice to applicants is that they be themselves and take their time in their responses.

“There is no need to be nervous,” Shelton said.

Chase Trautman, a freshman majoring in mechanical engineering, is applying for CMW. Trautman said he has known since his high school tour of the University that if he came to Alabama he would want to be in CMW.

Trautman is applying because he wants to share his passion for the University with prospective students, faculty, administration, and alumni.

“I feel like [being in CMW] is the best way to show my appreciation for this school,” said Trautman.

For the CMW application and more information on the organization visit cmw.ua.edu.