GEAR Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

Hagan Scholarship

Seeking to award graduating high school seniors with a scholarship to support their enrollment in a post-secondary institution. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.75 GPA and reside in a rural area (a county with less than 50,000 people).

11/15

Elks Most Valuable Student Competition

($4,000-$50,000) - The Most Valuable Student scholarship contest is open to any high school senior who is a US Citizen. Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.

11/15

Advancement of Women in Sports & Entertainment Scholarship 

The Floyd Mayweather Jr. Foundation is offering a $1,000 scholarship open to undergraduate or graduate students who are majoring in Public Relations, Communication, Media Studies, Marketing, or Journalism. Applicants must have a desire to work in the entertainment or sports industry and a minimum 2.75 GPA. 

11/17

10 Words or Less Scholarship

($500) - In 10 words or less, say why you deserve the scholarship.

11/30

Education Matters

($5,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn't matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?"

11/30

ACT SIX - Tacoma-Seattle

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 22 of Tacoma-Seattle’s most promising urban leaders for scholarships to four partner colleges: Gonzaga University, Northwest University, Pacific Lutheran University, and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Portland

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 17 of the Portland area's most promising community leaders for scholarships to George Fox University and Warner Pacific College. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Spokane

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 8 of Spokane's most promising community leaders for scholarships to Gonzaga University and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Yakima Valley

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 10 of the Yakima Valley’s most promising community leaders for scholarships to Heritage University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

Dell Scholars Program

($20,000) – For students who have demonstrated grit, potential and ambition in their quest for a college education.

12/1

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Art Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Writing Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Community Health Professions Academy (CHPA) 2021 Application

This program is aimed towards high school, junior high and middle school students from minority or underrepresented communities interested in dentistry, medicine, public health and other healthcare related careers. Get insight into these fields with virtual hands-on activities, public speaking skills, and receiving mentorship from current health professional students and providers. Due to the pandemic, all sessions will take place on Zoom but students will receive hands on materials via mail. >>Learn more.

12/6

Apply for the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest

Public school teachers nationwide can help their school win a share of $2M* in Samsung technology by entering the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow contest. Developing projects that apply STEAM subjects to improve your local community, can empower your students to learn creative problem solving and critical thinking skills.

12/13

Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America

For juniors who are highly motivated, have the desire to be a leader, and have demonstrated compassion and care for their community.

12/14

Mas Family Scholarship

($32,000) - Applicants must be of Cuban descent, have min. 3.5 GPA, & be financially needy.

12/15

AXA Achievement Scholarship.

($2,500-$25,000) – For students who are ethnically and economically diverse and share these qualities: Ambition and drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family and community, ability to succeed in college.

12/15

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship

Full tuition, fees, and stipend.

12/31

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Spring Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

12/31

Top Ten List Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Create a Top Ten List of the top ten reasons you should get this scholarship."

12/31

Unigo $10K Scholarship

($10,000) - In 140 characters or less submit a response to the question: "Surprise! You just got elected president. What’s your first tweet?"

12/31

Courage to Grow Scholarship

($500) - Please explain in 250 words or less why you believe that you should be awarded this scholarship.

12/31

GEAR Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing

Honors young women in HS for their computing-related achievements and interests. Awardees are selected for their computing and IT aptitude, leadership ability, academic history, and plans for postsecondary education.

11/5

Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

For young people who have demonstrated exemplary voluntary service to their communities. Max. award: $1,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C. Eligibility: Students grades 5-12 who have conducted a volunteer service activity within the past year.

11/10

Washington Women in Need Education Grant

General Education Grantees receive up to $5,000 over a one-year period to pay for tuition, mandatory fees, and required books and supplies at the approved Washington college or university of their choice. For females 18 and older.

11/12

Hagan Scholarship

Seeking to award graduating high school seniors with a scholarship to support their enrollment in a postsecondary institution. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.75 GPA and reside in a rural area (a county with less than 50,000 people).

11/15

Elks Most Valuable Student Competition

($4,000-$50,000) - The Most Valuable Student scholarship contest is open to any high school senior who is a US Citizen. Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.

11/15

10 Words or Less Scholarship

($500) - In 10 words or less, say why you deserve the scholarship.

11/30

Education Matters

($5,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn't matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?"

11/30

ACT SIX - Tacoma-Seattle

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 22 of Tacoma-Seattle’s most promising urban leaders for scholarships to four partner colleges: Gonzaga University, Northwest University, Pacific Lutheran University, and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Portland

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 17 of the Portland area's most promising community leaders for scholarships to George Fox University and Warner Pacific College. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Spokane

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 8 of Spokane's most promising community leaders for scholarships to Gonzaga University and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Yakima Valley

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 10 of the Yakima Valley’s most promising community leaders for scholarships to Heritage University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

Dell Scholars Program

($20,000) – For students who have demonstrated grit, potential and ambition in their quest for a college education.

12/1

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Art Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Writing Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Community Health Professions Academy (CHPA) 2021 Application

This program is aimed towards high school, junior high and middle school students from minority or underrepresented communities interested in dentistry, medicine, public health and other healthcare related careers. Get insight into these fields with virtual hands-on activities, public speaking skills, and receiving mentorship from current health professional students and providers. Due to the pandemic, all sessions will take place on Zoom but students will receive hands on materials via mail. >>Learn more.

12/6

Apply for the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest

Public school teachers nationwide can help their school win a share of $2M* in Samsung technology by entering the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow contest. Developing projects that apply STEAM subjects to improve your local community, can empower your students to learn creative problem solving and critical thinking skills.

12/13

Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America

LEDA is looking for juniors in high school who are highly motivated, have the desire to be a leader, and have demonstrated compassion and care for their community. The LEDA Scholars program begins with an ALL EXPENSE PAID seven week residential program at Princeton University that includes academic preparation for college, leadership training, college guidance, SAT/ACT preparation, help with college applications and scholarships, and a chance to experience life on a college campus. LEDA is for life. After the Summer Institute, the LEDA team continues to work with Scholars intensively on all aspects of their college applications and their transition to college.

12/14

Mas Family Scholarship

($32,000) - Applicants must be of Cuban descent, have min. 3.5 GPA, & be financially needy.

12/15

AXA Achievement Scholarship.

($2,500-$25,000) – For students who are ethnically and economically diverse and share these qualities: Ambition and drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family and community, ability to succeed in college.

12/15

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship

Full tuition, fees, and stipend.

12/31

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Spring Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

12/31

Top Ten List Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Create a Top Ten List of the top ten reasons you should get this scholarship."

12/31

Unigo $10K Scholarship

($10,000) - In 140 characters or less submit a response to the question: "Surprise! You just got elected president. What’s your first tweet?"

12/31

Courage to Grow Scholarship

($500) - Please explain in 250 words or less why you believe that you should be awarded this scholarship.

12/31

Emergency Rental Assistance Program Interview/Information

Lisa from the Opportunity Council sat down with me this week to share with us how we might qualify for emergency rental assistance support. Whether you are a college student, family, single adult, you name it, if you are behind in rent or your mortgage you may qualify for assistance. Please share this video and information with as many people as you can. These are unprecedented times of challenge and we are hoping everyone can get the support they need and deserve.

What is the basic eligibility information?

1. Under 50% AMI (gross income for all adults from the previous 60 days before application).

2. Must owe rent since March 1, 2020 or later.

3. At least 1 household member must meet at least one additional criteria* below:

o Rent burdened: 50% or more of current monthly income is needed to pay rent.

o Previously homeless within last five years. This includes experiences of couch surfing/doubled up.

o Eviction history within last seven years.

o Housing disrupted due to household member race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion. o At risk of severe illness as per CDC (62 or older, underlying condition).

o Disability of any household member. Includes a physical, developmental, mental, or emotional impairment, including impairment caused by alcohol or drug abuse, post- traumatic stress disorder, or brain injury. A person with HIV/AIDS is considered disabled.

o If screening a young adult age 24 or younger, these additional criteria can be used to determine eligibility: Person 24 years old or younger that is pregnant or parenting OR person 24 years old or younger that is a recipient (current or past) from any one of the following: foster care; adoption; mental health; drug, alcohol treatment; court systems.

*These will NOT asked to be verified – self-declaration during screening is sufficient. How much rent assistance can be received?

A maximum of 3 months total rent assistance. One month must be arrears, the other 2 can be current or future rent payments.

We will be able to pay rent amounts that fall under 100% Fair Market Rent (FMR). Rent amounts that exceed FMR can receive assistance at 80% of the balance due up to 3 months. What documentation is required?

Documentation of all sources of income received in the past 60 days for all household members: pay stubs, child support, DSHS, Social Security, unemployment, other.

What are the rental requirements?

This can be formal lease with a landlord or an informal agreement with rental payments being made to friends/family. No lease documentation will be required.

How to apply?

To apply for rental assistance, people should call Opportunity Council, 360-734-5121, ext. 316

Community Resource Newsletter

Hello friends! Here is the most recent Community Resource Newsletter (CRN) from the Opportunity Council and Whatcom Asset Building Coalition. Click here to view or download your own copy.

GEAR UP Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

Horatio Alger Scholarship - National Scholarships

($25,000) - The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program is one of the major scholarship programs nationally that specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Horatio Alger Scholarship - State Scholarships

($10,000) - State scholarships are awarded to eligible students in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. The program specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Program

For high-performing HS seniors with financial need who seek to attend the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Scholars receive up to $40,000 per year, college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to network with the larger JKCF Scholar community. Up to 40 College Scholars are selected for this program each year.

10/30

Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship

($20,000) - High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA may apply. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.

10/31

Voice of Democracy Scholarship.

Provided by the VFW, students in grades 9-12 are eligible for up to $30,000.

10/31

ZipRecruiter Scholarship

($3,000) To enter, please write a 500-800-word essay that addresses a job you previously held and your ideal post-grad job. 

10/31

Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship

($2,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Imagine that your high school or college has been overrun with zombies. Your math professor, the cafeteria ladies, and even your best friend have all joined the walking dead. Flesh out a plan to avoid the zombies, including where you’d hide and the top-five things you’d bring to stay alive."

10/31

NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing

Honors young women in HS for their computing-related achievements and interests. Awardees are selected for their computing and IT aptitude, leadership ability, academic history, and plans for postsecondary education.

11/5

Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

For young people who have demonstrated exemplary voluntary service to their communities. Max. award: $1,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C. Eligibility: Students grades 5-12 who have conducted a volunteer service activity within the past year.

11/10

Washington Women in Need Education Grant

General Education Grantees receive up to $5,000 over a one-year period to pay for tuition, mandatory fees, and required books and supplies at the approved Washington college or university of their choice. For females 18 and older.

11/12

Elks Most Valuable Student Competition

($4,000-$50,000) - The Most Valuable Student scholarship contest is open to any high school senior who is a US Citizen. Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.

11/15

10 Words or Less Scholarship

($500) - In 10 words or less, say why you deserve the scholarship.

11/30

Education Matters

($5,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn't matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?"

11/30

ACT SIX - Tacoma-Seattle

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 22 of Tacoma-Seattle’s most promising urban leaders for scholarships to four partner colleges: Gonzaga University, Northwest University, Pacific Lutheran University, and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Portland

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 17 of the Portland area's most promising community leaders for scholarships to George Fox University and Warner Pacific College. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Spokane

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 8 of Spokane's most promising community leaders for scholarships to Gonzaga University and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Yakima Valley

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 10 of the Yakima Valley’s most promising community leaders for scholarships to Heritage University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

Dell Scholars Program.

($20,000) – For students who have demonstrated grit, potential and ambition in their quest for a college education.

12/1

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Art Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Writing Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Apply for the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest

Public school teachers nationwide can help their school win a share of $2M* in Samsung technology by entering the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow contest. Developing projects that apply STEAM subjects to improve your local community, can empower your students to learn creative problem solving and critical thinking skills.

12/13

Mas Family Scholarship

($32,000) - Applicants must be of Cuban descent, have min. 3.5 GPA, & be financially needy.

12/15

AXA Achievement Scholarship.

($2,500-$25,000) – For students who are ethnically and economically diverse and share these qualities: Ambition and drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family and community, ability to succeed in college.

12/15

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship

Full tuition, fees, and stipend.

12/31

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Spring Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

12/31

Top Ten List Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Create a Top Ten List of the top ten reasons you should get this scholarship."

12/31

Unigo $10K Scholarship

($10,000) - In 140 characters or less submit a response to the question: "Surprise! You just got elected president. What’s your first tweet?"

12/31

Courage to Grow Scholarship

($500) - Please explain in 250 words or less why you believe that you should be awarded this scholarship.

12/31

Community Resource Newsletter

Hello friends! Here is the most recent Community Resource Newsletter (CRN) from the Opportunity Council and Whatcom Asset Building Coalition. Click here to view or download your own copy.

EVEN MORE FINANCIAL AID SUPPORT

Hello friends!

We are so fortunate to have incredible community partners like Whatcom Community College who want to make sure you get the support you need to complete you Financial Aid application! We are partnering with them on November 12th to help you complete your application and get your questions answered. This event is open to all students in need of assistance, not just folks planning on or currently attending WCC. To register click here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1tAyT4CFS0y7UOEs_ak79g.

Fall Financial Aid support

Hello friends!

If you were unable to attend our Financial Aid event on October 13th, we have so many other offerings thanks to WSAC for hosting them! Your FuturesNW team will also be present at these events and we are happy to support you. We look forward to seeing you there!

Student registration information 

12th Year Campaign Statewide FA Event
10/15/20 11:00am-2:00pm
Register in advance

12th Year Campaign Statewide FA Event
10/24/20 11:00am-2:00pm
Register in advance

12th Year Campaign Statewide FA Event
10/28/20 5:00-8:00pm
Register in advance

12th Year Campaign SW WA Regional FA Event (tentative)
11/10/2020 11:00am-2:00pm
Register in advance

12th Year Campaign Statewide FA Event
11/19/2020 5:00-8:00pm
Register in advance

12th Year Campaign Statewide FA Event
12/1/20 5:00-8:00pm
Register in advance

GEAR Up Scholarship Bulletin

https://gearup.wa.gov/educators/scholarships

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

·         Nominations Request: Presidential Scholars Program. You are encouraged to nominate students who, while demonstrating outstanding scholarship, might not otherwise be nominated through the current SAT/ACT processes. Students must be HS seniors who are who are U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. See Presidential Scholars Nominations Memo & Instructions and the U.S. Presidential Scholars Nomination Form. Nominations due 10/16.

CJ Pony Parts Scholarship Video Contest

($500) - Create a short video, under 3 minutes long, on one of their topics.

10/15

Horatio Alger Scholarship - National Scholarships

($25,000) - The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program is one of the major scholarship programs nationally that specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Horatio Alger Scholarship - State Scholarships

($10,000) - State scholarships are awarded to eligible students in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. The program specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Program

For high-performing HS seniors with financial need who seek to attend the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Scholars receive up to $40,000 per year, college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to network with the larger JKCF Scholar community. Up to 40 College Scholars are selected for this program each year.

10/30

Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship

($20,000) - High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA may apply. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.

10/31

Voice of Democracy Scholarship.

Provided by the VFW, students in grades 9-12 are eligible for up to $30,000.

10/31

ZipRecruiter Scholarship

($3,000) To enter, please write a 500-800-word essay that addresses a job you previously held and your ideal post-grad job. 

10/31

Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship

($2,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Imagine that your high school or college has been overrun with zombies. Your math professor, the cafeteria ladies, and even your best friend have all joined the walking dead. Flesh out a plan to avoid the zombies, including where you’d hide and the top-five things you’d bring to stay alive."

10/31

NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing

Honors young women in HS for their computing-related achievements and interests. Awardees are selected for their computing and IT aptitude, leadership ability, academic history, and plans for postsecondary education.

11/5

Prudential Spirit of Community Awards

For young people who have demonstrated exemplary voluntary service to their communities. Max. award: $1,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C. Eligibility: Students grades 5-12 who have conducted a volunteer service activity within the past year.

11/10

Washington Women in Need Education Grant

General Education Grantees receive up to $5,000 over a one-year period to pay for tuition, mandatory fees, and required books and supplies at the approved Washington college or university of their choice. For females 18 and older.

11/12

Elks Most Valuable Student Competition

($4,000-$50,000) - The Most Valuable Student scholarship contest is open to any high school senior who is a US Citizen. Applicants will be judged on scholarship, leadership, and financial need.

11/15

10 Words or Less Scholarship

($500) - In 10 words or less, say why you deserve the scholarship.

11/30

Education Matters

($5,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn't matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?"

11/30

ACT SIX - Tacoma-Seattle

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 22 of Tacoma-Seattle’s most promising urban leaders for scholarships to four partner colleges: Gonzaga University, Northwest University, Pacific Lutheran University, and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Portland

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 17 of the Portland area's most promising community leaders for scholarships to George Fox University and Warner Pacific College. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Spokane

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 8 of Spokane's most promising community leaders for scholarships to Gonzaga University and Whitworth University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

ACT SIX - Yakima Valley

(Full Tuition) - Will select approximately 10 of the Yakima Valley’s most promising community leaders for scholarships to Heritage University. Scholars are chosen through a rigorous, highly competitive, three-phase selection process that spans 4 months.

12/1

Dell Scholars Program.

($20,000) – For students who have demonstrated grit, potential and ambition in their quest for a college education.

12/1

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Art Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Scholastic Art & Writing Scholarships - Writing Award

For 7-12th graders. Submit an original piece of art or writing. $500-1,000.

12/4

Apply for the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Contest

Public school teachers nationwide can help their school win a share of $2M* in Samsung technology by entering the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow contest. Developing projects that apply STEAM subjects to improve your local community, can empower your students to learn creative problem solving and critical thinking skills.

12/13

Mas Family Scholarship

($32,000) - Applicants must be of Cuban descent, have min. 3.5 GPA, & be financially needy.

12/15

AXA Achievement Scholarship.

($2,500-$25,000) – For students who are ethnically and economically diverse and share these qualities: Ambition and drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family and community, ability to succeed in college.

12/15

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship

Full tuition, fees, and stipend.

12/31

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Spring Issue

Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.

12/31

Top Ten List Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Create a Top Ten List of the top ten reasons you should get this scholarship."

12/31

Unigo $10K Scholarship

($10,000) - In 140 characters or less submit a response to the question: "Surprise! You just got elected president. What’s your first tweet?"

12/31

Courage to Grow Scholarship

($500) - Please explain in 250 words or less why you believe that you should be awarded this scholarship.

12/31

GEAR Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

• The SchoolHouse Connection Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program. Provides scholarships to youth who have experienced homelessness to ensure their completion of a post-secondary education program. Due Oct. 1.

We the Future Contest

Open to K-12 students, college students, law school students, graduate school students, adults 25 years of age and older, and seniors 65 years of age and older. Each age group has different requirements, so applicants should visit website for details. Amount varies.

9/17

QuestBridge National College Match

Online platform that helps outstanding low-income HS seniors gain admission and full 4-year scholarships to some of the nation's most selective colleges.

9/29

Community College Scholarship

Open to students enrolled at a public community college, technical college, junior college, or city college. Must provide short essay responses to provided topics.

9/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Winter Issue

($100-$500) - Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less.

9/30

Shout It Out Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words of less submit an online written response to the question: "If you could say one thing to the entire world at once, what would it be and why?"

9/30

CJ Pony Parts Scholarship Video Contest

($500) - Create a short video, under 3 minutes long, on one of their topics.

10/15

Horatio Alger Scholarship - National Scholarships

($25,000) - The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program is one of the major scholarship programs nationally that specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Horatio Alger Scholarship - State Scholarships

($10,000) - State scholarships are awarded to eligible students in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. The program specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Program

For high-performing HS seniors with financial need who seek to attend the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Scholars receive up to $40,000 per year, college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to network with the larger JKCF Scholar community. Up to 40 College Scholars are selected for this program each year.

10/30

Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship

($20,000) - High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA may apply. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.

10/31

Voice of Democracy Scholarship.

Provided by the VFW, students in grades 9-12 are eligible for up to $30,000.

10/31

ZipRecruiter Scholarship

($3,000) To enter, please write a 500-800-word essay that addresses a job you previously held and your ideal post-grad job. 

10/31

Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship

($2,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Imagine that your high school or college has been overrun with zombies. Your math professor, the cafeteria ladies, and even your best friend have all joined the walking dead. Flesh out a plan to avoid the zombies, including where you’d hide and the top-five things you’d bring to stay alive."

10/31

Do you, or someone you know need housing payment assistance?

We are partnering with The Opportunity Council to try and get word out to our Whatcom County residents that might qualify for payment assistance if they are behind on rent or mortgage payments. These are such intensely challenging times and you are not alone if you find yourself in need of help. Please use, share and connect those around you with the resources we have available to us. If you want help determining if you are eligible please don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with me (Ashley, adelatour@futuresnw.org) or call the rental assistance line at 360-734-5121.

Program guidelines (provided by Opportunity Council):

The Opportunity Council will be receiving CARES Act dollars to serve Whatcom Co households with Rental Assistance (ERAP). These funds will be available approximately Sept 1-Dec 31, 2020. They are designed to serve households who are below 50% AMI and have unpaid rent. Someone in the household also must meet at least one additional criterion in order to be eligible:

•  Rent burdened: 50% or more of current monthly income is needed to pay rent.

•  Previously homeless within the last five years. This includes experiences of couch surfing/double up.

•  Eviction history within the last seven years.

•  Housing disrupted due to household member race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion.   

•  At risk of severe illness as per CDC (62 or older, underlying condition).

Disability of any member of the household. Includes a physical, developmental, mental, or emotional impairment, including impairment caused by alcohol or drug abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, or brain injury. A person with HIV/AIDS is considered disabled.

Cynthia, Student Speaker Series

Hello and welcome to FuturesNW Student Speaker Series where we share stories by students, for students, from students. We believe that students are the experts at navigating tricky post-secondary systems and their stories have the power to dismantle secret handshakes that are barriers for first gen students succeeding in higher education. In this video, Johana interviews Cynthia Cruz who shares about the their experience in college and the new program they are starting!

The First-Gen Navigators program is a collaborative partnership between FuturesNW and Western Washington University to connect first-generation students of color with mentors to help guide them through their first year of college. Cynthia Cruz, a Western Washington University senior and FuturesNW team member has created this program to support incoming freshmen students in their first year. This mentorship program is led by current students of color who have navigated the same systems and are driven to support the next generation of leaders succeeding in higher education. Each mentee will be guided in a series of resource navigation workshops and community building activities to help them get the support they deserve in completing their degrees. To join this year’s cohort, click the link below to register and get paired with a mentor. Due to COVID-19 all workshops and activities will be through Zoom until it is safe to meet up in person.

Registration link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/J6HGRMW

Helpful GUR and class registration links:

Rate My Professor: https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/

GUR: https://www.wwu.edu/advising/doc/GURc...

Classfinder: https://admin.wwu.edu/pls/wwis/wwskti...  

Tutorials on how to use the above-mentioned links:

Rate my Professor: https://youtu.be/9d8_svR-Mvs

GUR: https://youtu.be/T82pNfuHZpY

Classfinder: https://youtu.be/62KAniMug5M

More questions? Contact Ashley DeLatour at adelatour@futuresnw.org

For more resources, information and stories of first gen students check out our resources below.

Website: http://www.futuresnw.org

Podcast: http://www.futuresnw.org/podcast

Blog: http://www.futuresnw.org/blog

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futuresnw/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futuresnw2020/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FuturesNorthwe1

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futuresnw2020

Gear Up Scholarship Bulletin.

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.

• The SchoolHouse Connection Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program. Provides scholarships to youth who have experienced homelessness to ensure their completion of a post-secondary education program. Due Oct. 1.

We the Future Contest

Open to K-12 students, college students, law school students, graduate school students, adults 25 years of age and older, and seniors 65 years of age and older. Each age group has different requirements, so applicants should visit website for details. Amount varies.

9/17

QuestBridge National College Match

Online platform that helps outstanding low-income HS seniors gain admission and full 4-year scholarships to some of the nation's most selective colleges.

9/29

Community College Scholarship

Open to students enrolled at a public community college, technical college, junior college, or city college. Must provide short essay responses to provided topics.

9/30

Scholarship Poetry Contest - Winter Issue

($100-$500) - Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less.

9/30

Shout It Out Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words of less submit an online written response to the question: "If you could say one thing to the entire world at once, what would it be and why?"

9/30

CJ Pony Parts Scholarship Video Contest

($500) - Create a short video, under 3 minutes long, on one of their topics.

10/15

Horatio Alger Scholarship - National Scholarships

($25,000) - The Horatio Alger National Scholarship Program is one of the major scholarship programs nationally that specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Horatio Alger Scholarship - State Scholarships

($10,000) - State scholarships are awarded to eligible students in all fifty states and the District of Columbia. The program specifically assists high school students who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young lives.

10/25

Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Program

For high-performing HS seniors with financial need who seek to attend the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. Scholars receive up to $40,000 per year, college planning support, ongoing advising, and the opportunity to network with the larger JKCF Scholar community. Up to 40 College Scholars are selected for this program each year.

10/30

Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship

($20,000) - High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA may apply. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.

10/31

Voice of Democracy Scholarship.

Provided by the VFW, students in grades 9-12 are eligible for up to $30,000.

10/31

ZipRecruiter Scholarship

($3,000) To enter, please write a 500-800-word essay that addresses a job you previously held and your ideal post-grad job. 

10/31

Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship

($2,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "Imagine that your high school or college has been overrun with zombies. Your math professor, the cafeteria ladies, and even your best friend have all joined the walking dead. Flesh out a plan to avoid the zombies, including where you’d hide and the top-five things you’d bring to stay alive."

10/31

The College Bound Scholarship

Hello and welcome to FuturesNW Student Speaker Series where we share stories by students, for students, from students. We believe that students are the experts at navigating tricky post-secondary systems and their stories have the power to dismantle secret handshakes that are barriers for first gen students succeeding in higher education. In this video, Ashley DeLatour interviews Sarah Ounniyom and Cynthia Cruz, who share about the their experiences with the College Bound Scholarship.

For more resources and information on the College Bound Scholarship check out:

FuturesNW: http://www.futuresnw.org/scholarships...

Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC): https://wsac.wa.gov/college-bound

Application: https://portal.wsac.wa.gov/programs/c...

FAQ: https://static1.squarespace.com/stati...

Otterbot: https://wsac.wa.gov/otterbot

College Bound Scholarship List Serve: http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/3063979...

More questions? Contact Ashley DeLatour at adelatour@futuresnw.org

A Moment and a Message, part 1

Video #2: A Moment and a Message

As we head into fall application season we wanted you to have some additional resources for making the impact you want through your written voice. Because the essay can be such a barrier for so many of us, we have created a series of videos so that you can write your scholarship or college application essay with confidence.

I’m Tricia Hester, scuba diver, English teacher, and FuturesNW volunteer. In this video we will be talking about the two most important components of a personal statement: A moment and a message.

We know everyone has a story to tell. That story might be buried beneath the seemingly mundane, but it’s there. Bright, engaging and important. This is the story that the people in charge of admissions and scholarships want to hear.

Transcript of video:

In this video you will learn about the difference between a moment and a message, how they are related, and why each is important. Let’s get started. 

First, remember Myth #1 from “About the Personal Statement”. Your personal statement does not need to feature an epic event. However, it does need to feature a specific, vivid moment. Let’s take a look at an example that demonstrates both the power of the everyday and a focus on a specific moment.

This example comes from a successful application to Yale. This student was admitted to Yale, and she wrote about ordering Papa John’s pizza in her application. The first few sentences describe in colorful detail the moment that a pizza is delivered. This moment serves several purposes. First and foremost, it captures the reader’s attention, allows them to experience the moment as the author does. Second, it demonstrates the author’s command of language with descriptive details and analogies that are not cliché. And third, it demonstrates the author’s command of focus. She does not try to capture everything about ordering Papa John’s pizza; she focuses on the doorbell that signals its arrival.

However, in and of itself this moment does not make a successful personal statement. It requires a message, or a theme, that explains its greater importance. The pizza is important because it symbolizes celebration, comfort, and self-sufficiency. Without this message, the moment is not as meaningful even with its beautifully crafted descriptions.

Further, the message is not as impactful without the moment. Had the author jumped right into the message – that ordering Papa John’s pizza “evokes feelings of independence, consolation, and joy” – it would have been difficult for the audience to empathize with that message. The author first puts the audience in her shoes – drooling at the sound of the doorbell – and then reveals deeper meaning, the significance of the simple act of ordering pizza.

Both the moment and the message are vital. Together they create the heartbeat that gives your personal statement life. In my video about idea generation, I’ll discuss strategies for coming up with moments and messages that are related and how to narrow your focus to make space for detail. You can also view A Moment and a Message Part 2 for additional examples of impactful personal statements.