Gear Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

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

  • BigFuture Scholarships. All juniors: Make yourself eligible for $500 and $40,000 scholarships each month. Earn entries in monthly drawings for scholarships by completing steps to plan for college.

  • Point Foundation: College Scholarships for LGBT Students

    • For HS seniors. No citizenship is required. History of leadership &/or allyship in issues that affect the LGBT/Queer community. Must plan to continue this leadership/allyship in the future. No specific GPA but seeking candidates w/ high academic performance.

Scholarship, Brief Description, and Due Date

1/18

APIASF Scholarship Program

($2,500-$20,000) - APIA Scholars provides scholarships to underserved APIA students with a particular focus on those who: Live at or below the poverty level or are otherwise of low socioeconomic status; Are the first in their families to attend college; Are representative of the APIA community's diversity (geographically and ethnically), especially those ethnicities that have been underrepresented on college campuses due to limited access and opportunity; and have placed a strong emphasis on community service, leadership, and solid academic achievement.

1/19

The Hamilton Award

The Hamilton Award recognizes outstanding HS juniors for their academic, personal, and service achievements. It selects students for the Hamilton Leaders Academy – a three-year, no-student-cost program that helps students get into college, transition to college, succeed in college, and transition to the post-college world.

1/25

The UW DO-IT Scholars Program

DO-IT Scholars are Washington State HS students with disabilities planning to continue their education after graduation. Scholars prepare for their transition to college—which includes exploring careers, independence, self-advocacy, and leadership. Open to HS sophomores or juniors.

1/30

USDA/1890 National Scholars Program

Scholarships are awarded annually and must be used at one of 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Universities. Each award provides full tuition and room and board for the scholarship term. The scholarship may be renewed each year.

1/31

Governor's Scholarship for Foster Youth

($2,000-$4,000) – For youth in foster care to continue their education and earn a college degree.

1/31

Leadership 1000 Scholarship

For HS seniors attending eligible high schools and planning to enroll in a WA state college or university. The scholarship is renewable, and it is available in amounts up to $5,000 per academic year. In addition to the scholarship, scholars receive guidance regarding career, financial aid, and networking opportunities with CSF alums and scholarship donors to ensure students graduate with a four-year degree and succeed in life.

1/31

The American Legion National HS Oratorical Contest Scholarship

It aims to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. Washington State will award $5,000 in scholarships to the top 4 finishers.

1/31

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship

Selected applicants for the Navy ROTC Scholarship Program are awarded scholarships through a highly competitive national selection process and receive full tuition, books stipend, educational fees, and other financial benefits at many of the country's leading colleges and universities. Upon graduation, midshipmen are commissioned as officers in the unrestricted line Naval Reserve or Marine Corps Reserve.

1/31

EngineerGirl Essay Contest

This essay contest is for K12 students – in grades 3 thru 12 (ages 8-18). To apply, applicants must write an original essay on an engineering topic.

2/1

John F. & Anna Lee Stacey Scholarship Fund for Art Education

($500-$5,000) - For students ages 18 -35 pursuing a profession in visual arts & be skilled & devoted to the classical or conservative tradition.

2/1

AXA Achievement Scholarship

($2,500-$25,000) - This award is available for U.S. high school seniors who plan to enroll in an accredited two- or four-year college or university for the upcoming school year. Students must submit a detailed essay that describes one outstanding, a non-academic achievement they have accomplished.

2/1

HACER® National Scholarship

For HS seniors who plan to attend a 2- or 4-year college or university. Must have at least one parent of Hispanic heritage, have a min. 3.0 GPA, and be a legal resident.

2/5

Gordon A. Rich Memorial Scholarship

($12,500) - The recipients of GAR scholarships are exceptionally qualified high school students with demonstrated financial need whose parents or guardians have, or had, a career in the financial services industry.

2/16

The Christophers’ Poster Contest

Open to 9-12 graders. Create an original poster that interprets the theme "You Can Make a Difference” & illustrates the idea that one person can change the world for the better. $100-$1,000.

2/16

Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship

Due to the generosity of an anonymous donor, The Vegetarian Resource Group each year will award $20,000 in college scholarship money to graduating U.S. high school students who have promoted vegetarianism in their schools and/or communities. Vegetarians do not eat meat, fish, or fowl. Vegans are vegetarians who do not use other animal products such as dairy or eggs.
One award of $10,000 and two $5,000 will be given. Entries may only be sent by students graduating from high school in SPRING 2023.

2/20

Indian Health Services Scholarships

Scholarships for qualified American Indian and Alaska Native students who plan to enter or are pursuing degrees in the health profession.

2/28

Gear Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

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

  • BigFuture Scholarships. All juniors: Make yourself eligible for $500 and $40,000 scholarships each month. Earn entries in monthly drawings for scholarships by completing steps to plan for college.

Scholarship, Brief Description, and Due Date

Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship Award

($35,000) - The JRF scholarship is awarded to outstanding high school graduates who plan to earn a baccalaureate degree from an accredited four-year college or university.

1/11

Bezos Scholars Program

Successful applicants are public high school juniors and a staff person from their school that serves as their educator and participates fully in the program. Successful applicants have a strong drive and commitment to their education and demonstrate maturity, curiosity, resilience, and leadership.

1/12

FFA Scholarships

Over 1,000 scholarships w/ just one application available to FFA members.

1/12

GSBA Scholarship Fund

($8,000) - The average annual award amount for each scholar is $8,000. In addition, GSBA invests in our scholars' leadership development through annual programs and workshops.

1/13

Point Foundation: College Scholarships for LGBT Students

For HS seniors. No citizenship is required. History of leadership &/or allyship in issues that affect the LGBT/Queer community. Must plan to continue this leadership/allyship in the future. No specific GPA but seeking candidates w/ high academic performance.

1/18

APIASF Scholarship Program

($2,500-$20,000) - APIA Scholars provides scholarships to underserved APIA students with a particular focus on those who: Live at or below the poverty level or are otherwise of low socioeconomic status; Are the first in their families to attend college; Are representative of the APIA community's diversity (geographically and ethnically), especially those ethnicities that have been underrepresented on college campuses due to limited access and opportunity; and have placed a strong emphasis on community service, leadership, and solid academic achievement.

1/19

The Hamilton Award

The Hamilton Award recognizes outstanding HS juniors for their academic, personal, and service achievements. It selects students for the Hamilton Leaders Academy – a three-year, no-student-cost program that helps students get into college, transition to college, succeed in college, and transition to the post-college world.

1/25

The UW DO-IT Scholars Program

DO-IT Scholars are Washington State HS students with disabilities planning to continue their education after graduation. Scholars prepare for their transition to college—which includes exploring careers, independence, self-advocacy, and leadership. Open to HS sophomores or juniors.

1/30

USDA/1890 National Scholars Program

Scholarships are awarded annually and must be used at one of 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Universities. Each award provides full tuition and room and board for the scholarship term. The scholarship may be renewed each year.

1/31

Governor's Scholarship for Foster Youth

($2,000-$4,000) – For youth in foster care to continue their education and earn a college degree.

1/31

Leadership 1000 Scholarship

For HS seniors attending eligible high schools and planning to enroll in a WA state college or university. The scholarship is renewable, and it is available in amounts up to $5,000 per academic year. In addition to the scholarship, scholars receive guidance regarding career, financial aid, and networking opportunities with CSF alums and scholarship donors to ensure students graduate with a four-year degree and succeed in life.

1/31

The American Legion National HS Oratorical Contest Scholarship

It aims to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. Washington State will award $5,000 in scholarships to the top 4 finishers.

1/31

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship

Selected applicants for the Navy ROTC Scholarship Program are awarded scholarships through a highly competitive national selection process and receive full tuition, books stipend, educational fees, and other financial benefits at many of the country's leading colleges and universities. Upon graduation, midshipmen are commissioned as officers in the unrestricted line Naval Reserve or Marine Corps Reserve.

1/31

Gear Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

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

  • BigFuture Scholarships. All juniors: Make yourself eligible for $500 and $40,000 scholarships each month. Earn entries in monthly drawings for scholarships by completing steps to plan for college.

  • Gen & Kelly Tanabe Scholarship. For students in grades 9-12, college, and graduate school students. Applicants must submit an essay answering why they deserve the scholarship or their academic or career goals. Awards up to $1,000. Dec. 31.  

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship

For college-bound students who demonstrate exemplary leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship with financial assistance to pursue higher education. $10,000 in renewable scholarships - up to $40,000 total - for tuition, school fees, books, supplies, and on-campus room and board.

1/5

Pride Foundation Scholarship

For LGBTQ+ students and allies. Applicants must be pursuing postsecondary education in the coming 2022-2023 school year (including community college, four-year public or private college or university, certificate programs, vocational/technical/trade programs, law school, medical/dental/veterinary school, or graduate education).

1/6

Ron Brown Scholar Program

The Ron Brown Scholar Program annually awards 20 or more college scholarships for $40,000 to extraordinary African American high school seniors. Students must attend a four-year accredited college or university within the United States.

1/9

Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship Award

($35,000) - The JRF scholarship is awarded to outstanding high school graduates who plan to earn a baccalaureate degree from an accredited four-year college or university.

1/11

Bezos Scholars Program

Successful applicants are public high school juniors and a staff person from their school that serves as their educator and participates fully in the program. Successful applicants have a strong drive and commitment to their education and demonstrate maturity, curiosity, resilience, and leadership.

1/12

FFA Scholarships

Over 1,000 scholarships w/ just one application available to FFA members.

1/12

GSBA Scholarship Fund

($8,000) - The average annual award amount for each scholar is $8,000. In addition, GSBA invests in our scholars' leadership development through annual programs and workshops.

1/13

Point Foundation: College Scholarships for LGBT Students

For HS seniors. No citizenship is required. History of leadership &/or allyship in issues that affect the LGBT/Queer community. Must plan to continue this leadership/allyship in the future. No specific GPA but seeking candidates w/ high academic performance.

1/18

APIASF Scholarship Program

($2,500-$20,000) - APIA Scholars provides scholarships to underserved APIA students with a particular focus on those who: Live at or below the poverty level or are otherwise of low socioeconomic status; Are the first in their families to attend college; Are representative of the APIA community's diversity (geographically and ethnically), especially those ethnicities that have been underrepresented on college campuses due to limited access and opportunity; and have placed a strong emphasis on community service, leadership, and solid academic achievement.

1/19

The Hamilton Award

The Hamilton Award recognizes outstanding HS juniors for their academic, personal, and service achievements. It selects students for the Hamilton Leaders Academy – a three-year, no-student-cost program that helps students get into college, transition to college, succeed in college, and transition to the post-college world.

1/25

The UW DO-IT Scholars Program

DO-IT Scholars are Washington State HS students with disabilities planning to continue their education after graduation. Scholars prepare for their transition to college—which includes exploring careers, independence, self-advocacy, and leadership. Open to HS sophomores or juniors.

1/30

USDA/1890 National Scholars Program

Scholarships are awarded annually and must be used at one of 1890 Historically Black Land-Grant Universities. Each award provides full tuition and room and board for the scholarship term. The scholarship may be renewed each year.

1/31

Governor's Scholarship for Foster Youth

($2,000-$4,000) – For youth in foster care to continue their education and earn a college degree.

1/31

Leadership 1000 Scholarship

For HS seniors attending eligible high schools and planning to enroll in a WA state college or university. The scholarship is renewable, and it is available in amounts up to $5,000 per academic year. In addition to the scholarship, scholars receive guidance regarding career, financial aid, and networking opportunities with CSF alums and scholarship donors to ensure students graduate with a four-year degree and succeed in life.

1/31

The American Legion National HS Oratorical Contest Scholarship

It aims to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. Washington State will award $5,000 in scholarships to the top 4 finishers.

1/31

Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship

Selected applicants for the Navy ROTC Scholarship Program are awarded scholarships through a highly competitive national selection process and receive full tuition, books stipend, educational fees, and other financial benefits at many of the country's leading colleges and universities. Upon graduation, midshipmen are commissioned as officers in the unrestricted line Naval Reserve or Marine Corps Reserve.

1/31

Learning with Leaders at Options High School Recap!

Megan Wingo and Ashby McCoy welcome guests, students and volunteers to the event.

Last Thursday, December 8th, FuturesNW hosted over 25 community leaders from the construction/advanced manufacturing and healthcare fields at Options High School for a successful morning of workshops! While this event was only open to Options students, it was the first of a larger, scaled-out series of Learning with Leaders events, thanks to our Career Connect Washington grant, that will begin in the Fall of 2023. Stay tuned for more details as they unfold.

Dental workshop prepping stations for students to engage in different activities.

Learning with Leaders connects students with in-demand career pathways by providing exploration that focuses on local employment, education, and support services. All Learning with Leaders workshops are designed to be hands-on, experiential activities where students get the opportunity to actually practice a skill used in a trade or profession and discover their strengths through kinesthetic learning. Students are encouraged to ask questions, engage in activities, and be curious about what they might be interested in doing after high school. The core of the Learning with Leaders program is to help guide students in discovering their strengths, showing them what they can become, and how they can get there.

Karen Piette talks students through their hands on “blood” drawing experience

During the weeks leading up to the event, Options students got to preview who the guest facilitators would be and what their workshop would showcase. Based on what fields and workshop descriptions interested them, students registered for one workshop per each of the three sessions. Workshop activities ranged from collecting fake blood for a mock phlebotomy in a medical assisting workshop to testing solar water pumps in a renewable energy workshop. In addition to the diverse variety community leaders who came to tell their stories and show students what they do, there were support service workshops such as college speed-dating, financial aid and scholarship support, resume-building, and a Community and Technical College application completion workshop.

With a hugely successful day, we want to thank all of our community partners, leaders, and volunteers that participated and made this event possible. Our guest facilitators included Career Coach Monique Stefens, Brady Lester from Western Solar; Stephanie Bostwick, Lisa Redsteer, and Christian Cultee from Northwest Indian College; Dustin Bliss, Sam Kloes, and Elyssa Kuik from WRS; George Mehler from PACCAR; Pat Burnett from Whatcom Community College; Shaun Sowell and her team of graduate students from Western Washington University; Karen Piette and Melissa Perrin from Whatcom Community College; Alisa Wollens and Nina Karhinen from Bellingham Technical College; Tye Smith and Julie Williams from Skagit Valley College; Lauren Kackley and Karen Morris from Options High School; Lizbeth Gonzalez Vasquez from Bellingham Technical College; Shoshaunee Perez from Northwest Indian College; Marilú Fernandez from Skagit Valley College; Nubia Robles from Whatcom Community College; Ashley DeLatour from FuturesNW; and Rae Larson from the Whatcom Community College Foundation.

The College Speed-dating workshop where students got the opportunity to talk one-on-one with admissions reps from all of our local five colleges

This event would not have been possible without the help of FuturesNW staff, Options High School staff (with extra kudos to Lauren Kackley and Joe Wooding), and our amazing volunteers which included Stacey Nordtvedt from FuturesNW, Lisa Sohni from North Sound ACH/Oral Health LIN, Cori A. Garcia Hansen and Deja Svastisalee from WCC/AHECWW, and Lee Carter from the Northwest Carpenter’s Institute. Finally, we are so grateful for all the food we were able to nourish our guests and students with at this event all donated by The Bagelry, Starbucks, Trader Joes, Options High School, and US Foods Chef’s Store.

Check out the photos below to see what the day looked like, and stay tuned to hear about future events on the Learning with Leaders page!

Gear Up Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

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

  • GEAR UP Alumni Association National Scholarship. The GEAR UP Alumni Association is providing a scholarship to students for the Fall 2022 semester. Eligible students must provide proof of enrollment at an intuition of higher education, a short response providing information related to financial need, a short response explaining their GEAR UP participation, and a GEAR UP point of contact from their prior participation in GEAR UP. Due Sept. 19.

  • BigFuture Scholarships. All juniors: Make yourself eligible for $500 and $40,000 scholarships each month. Earn entries in monthly drawings for scholarships by completing steps to plan for college.

  • Cooke College Scholarship Program. Students can access the application here. The deadline is Nov. 17. Juniors can sign up here to receive notifications about the application for next year.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

We the Future Contest

Open to K-12 students, college students, law school students, graduate 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 the website for details. Amount varies.

9/17

QuestBridge National College Match

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

9/27

Don't Text and Drive Scholarship

($1,000) - Complete the application form, including a 140-character message about texting while driving. The top 10 applications will be selected as finalists. The finalists will be asked to write a full-length 500- to 1,000-word essay about texting while driving.

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 or 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

Community College Scholarship

For those with high financial need. Students must answer two open-ended, personal, and thought-provoking questions to provide our judges with a proper understanding of each applicant.

9/30

LEAP Rise Above (aka LEAP1%) Scholarship Fund

Financial support for students who demonstrate advocacy, accountability, perseverance, and have shown a commitment to improving their community. It is open to any student regardless of citizenship status. Amount: $2,500

10/1

SEA-MAR - Farm Worker Scholarship

For students who work or have worked OR whose parent/legal guardian is or has worked as a farm worker.

10/1

SchoolHouse Connection Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program

Provides scholarships to youth who have experienced homelessness to ensure their completion of a postsecondary education program. Assists youth with financial aid processes, mental health advocacy and referrals, professional legal advocacy and referrals, and assistance in locating and establishing local contacts for general support and services. Undocumented students who meet the criteria are eligible.

10/15

Golden Door Scholars Scholarship for Undocumented Students

(Full Tuition) - Golden Door Scholars lights the way undocumented students invest in their education and achieve their career goals beyond what they might imagine. Recent high school graduates, currently enrolled undergraduates, and transfer students (community college or 4-year college) are also welcomed to apply. However, we do not support funding for graduate degrees. Students must be eligible for DACA.

10/23

US Bank Scholarship Program

Complete a series of Financial Genius for Life online learning modules for a chance to win.

10/30

Disney Dreamers Academy Applications.

(Academy) - Disney Dreamers Academy is a 4-day, power-packed event in which 100 select high school students, ages 13 to 19, are inspired, motivated, and prepared to dream big.

10/31

Coca-Cola Scholars Scholarship

($20,000) - High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA may apply on our website in August of their senior year until the Oct. 31 deadline. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.

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 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

Voice of Democracy Scholarship.

($30,000) Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves through a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient's American university, college, or vocational/technical school.

Learning with Leaders is getting a boost!

Initially piloted in 2019 at Options High School featuring careers in the Arts and Healthcare, our Learning with Leaders program has come a long way. With the support of a grant from Career Connect Washington, we are thrilled to announce the expansion of the program to serve students throughout Whatcom and Skagit County! Learning with Leaders connects students with in-demand career pathways by providing exploration that focuses on local employment, education, and support services. Students will get real-time, tactile training, such as the chance to operate heavy equipment under the guidance of experts, take part in virtual simulations, and discover their strengths through kinesthetic learning experiences. These events will provide a foundation of exploration to connect students with prep classes offered in their high schools and colleges that will subsequently launch them into a career of their dreams.

The first large-scale event will launch in Fall 2023, so over this next year we will be creating three different events focusing on our region’s top, high-wage, in-demand career sectors (advanced manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and information technology). Each event will host all 5 of our Whatcom and Skagit county colleges, local training programs, financial aid resources, career support services, and much more to help guide students towards pathway opportunities after high school that they're excited about.

Wanting to create the most informed and relevant events possible, we are gathering local experts from our community and schools to create an advisory board composed of students, educators, nonprofit leaders, and professionals. The advisory board as a whole will meet quarterly and the subcommittees focused on each industry sector, will meet monthly. We are in the midst of recruiting our advisory team, so if you have any interest in joining please fill out this survey! If you are a high school student interested in joining our Youth Advisory Board, please fill out this survey! Surveys are also linked in the QR codes below.

We are also hiring a program assistant for the planning of this program so if interested please click this link to see the job description and how to apply!

Any questions about the program, the advisory board positions, or the program assistant position please reach out to our Learning with Leaders Program Coordinator, Ashby McCoy, at amccoy@futuresnw.org

Advisory Board Survey

Youth Advisory Board Survey

Meet our new Learning with Leaders Program Coordinator, Ashby!

Ashby has spent the past year getting her Masters in Social Work while interning and working at FuturesNW as the DVR Program Coordinator, and we are so excited to welcome her as a full-time member to the team! She will be leading the charge as we revamp our Learning with Leaders program. In addition to a Masters in Social work, Ashby has spent her professional career primarily in the outdoor education field in experiential and place-based education. Growing up on a farm in western Massachusetts, her love of the outdoors and adventure brought her to many places to work such as Maine, Montana, Idaho, Alaska, Wyoming, and finally landing in Bellingham, Washington. Pre-covid, Ashby served in the Peace Corps in Morocco as a Youth Development Specialist. When not working, Ashby loves to spend time outside with her new Golden puppy, Willow. Welcome to the team, Ashby!

Well Done, Jessica!

We are so proud of Jessica!

From DVR workshop facilitation to Financial Aid office hours, Jessica has done a little bit of everything for FuturesNW during her time here as an intern. She is a logistical and planning pro and always asks the right questions to make sure everyone stays on task. Throughout the academic year, it was a pleasure to witness her confidence growth and transition into a skillfully capable classroom facilitator. Whatever the task may be, we can always count on Jessica to complete it with professionalism, thoroughness, and dedication. She is smart, driven, and is an inspiration to the students she is serving as well as our fellow FuturesNW teammates. Her wonderfully kind spirit and care for the students she served shined through in all her work. She will be a huge asset to her future employer and they will be the lucky ones to get to work with her! Congratulations, Jessica!!

Q: First of all, how does it feel to have reached this huge accomplishment?

I’ve been looking forward to this moment for the last couple of years, but it almost feels surreal.

Q: What advice would you give other students who are either thinking about college or in the process of completing a degree?

 Pursuing college might seem daunting, but it’s worth it in the end. 

Q: What did you wish you would have known as you navigated higher education?

I wish I would’ve had more information about all the resources Western has to offer and how to navigate the scholarship application process. 

Q: How did completing your Financial Aid application help you reach your goals?

One benefit was that it decreased some stress about money and how I was going to pay for things. This allowed me to think about my future and other things I want to do after graduation.

Q: What will you miss the most about college?

I’ll miss all the friends I’ve made and people I’ve met! It’s so easy to meet and talk to new people, especially in the Human Services major where everyone knows everyone else 

Q: What is a favorite memory you have from your time at FuturesNW?

Getting to know everyone! Everyone is so nice and supportive. I couldn’t have asked for better people to work with or a better place to intern.

Q: What’s your next chapter looking like?

I have to take a summer class to finish my minor, but after that I’m not sure! I’m hoping to have a job lined up by the end of summer. I’m fortunate that my options are open and I have nothing tying me back, so I’m excited to see where the journey takes me!

Congratulations, Paige, You Did It!

Wow! Paige is a true rockstar!

Paige has been interning with us for an entire academic year. She always gives 110% to every project she is working on. We can count on her to consistently go above and beyond in every situation. She possesses a unique passion for supporting students with disabilities and always has our clients' needs in mind in every decision she makes. One of Paige's greatest strengths is her willingness to speak up and bring new ideas to the table. She is not afraid of asking questions, and she yearns to make the organization stronger. She can uniquely see growth opportunities and desires to put her energy into new ideas. Her communication, facilitating, grant writing, and teamworking skills are all top-notch! Paige is, without a doubt, an incredible intern at every level. Can we clone her for next year?! We cannot wait to see where she lands, and we know she will be amazing at whatever she decides to do in her future. Way to go, Paige!

Q: First of all, how does it feel to have reached this huge accomplishment?

It doesn’t feel real! I’ve been feeling more emotional lately because I’m sad to leave so many friends. However, I’m very fortunate to be surrounded by so many incredible people.

Q: What advice would you give other students who are either thinking about college or in the process of completing a degree?

Take charge of your college experience because college is what you make of it! Join clubs, sports, and attend as many exciting events as possible. Put yourself out there because when you don’t risk anything, you actually risk more! Just fake it till you make it.

Q: What did you wish you would have known as you navigated higher education?

I wish I knew that at certain times, self-care can look like giving the minimum effort rather than the maximum- especially when you need a mental health break. You don’t have to get to every single reading or attend every single class. Don’t strive for perfectionism, strive for balance.

Q: How did completing your Financial Aid application help you reach your goals?

One benefit of completing my financial aid application is that it helps me to assist others in completing theirs. I’d like to work in the education field later on, so volunteering at financial aid events at various different schools has been a transformative experience for both me and the student.

Q: What will you miss the most about college?

I will miss my friends the most. I learned that “home” isn’t a place, but a feeling that emerges from good friends and positive experiences. I will leave college feeling enormously grateful to have such wonderful friends who make life so worth living.

Q: What is a favorite memory you have from your time at FuturesNW?

My favorite memory from this experience has been the silly icebreakers we’ve done at team meetings. One of my favorites was an activity by Ashby: To draw Shrek from pure recollection (no pictures), and then share our new art pieces with each other.

Q: What’s your next chapter looking like?

In late June, I will leave on WWU’s Guanajuato’s faculty-led global learning program with a one-way ticket to Guanajuato, México. My plan is to stay there and teach English temporarily, because I will have graduated with my Human Services major and Spanish minor after finishing my study abroad this Summer. Wish me luck!

GEAR UP Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

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

  • 2022 #PlanYourPathWA Student Video Contest. Ready WA is launching their seventh annual student video contest to ignite high school students' thinking and conversations about their education and career goals! Due Apr. 27.

  • BigFuture Scholarships. All juniors: Make yourself eligible for $500 and $40,000 scholarships each month. Earn entries in monthly drawings for scholarships by completing steps to plan for college. The sooner you start and the more steps you complete, the more chances you’ll have to win. This month’s entries will continue to be included in upcoming monthly drawings.

  • National Institutes of Health’s Speaking Up About Mental Health!” Essay Contest. For students ages 16 to 18. Due Apr. 30.

  • Educators! Expedition Space Lab Funding Opportunities. The International Space Station U.S. National Laboratory has a unique opportunity for educators and organizations to apply for $10,000 to build an Expedition Space Lab. Grant applications close Apr. 30.

  • Educators! Applications Are Open to Host A NASA In-Flight Education Downlink. These are opportunities for students and educators to engage in a live Q & A session with astronauts on the International Space Station. Apply by May 10.

  • Got A Fintech Idea? Win $10,000. Competitors in the second annual statewide FinTech Incubator Challenge can submit their applications and pitch decks until May 17.

  • Terry Bryant Scholarship. The Terry Bryant Accident and Injury Law firm scholarship is open to high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants must submit a video, essay, or slideshow that addresses the dangers of drunk driving, underage driving, or distracted driving. Awards of up to $2,500 will be provided. Due by Jun. 1.

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

Washington Association of County Officials

($3,000) - The fund awards up to three $3,000 scholarships to eligible children of county employees and county elected officials in the following offices: assessors, auditors, clerks, coroners, medical examiners, prosecutors, sheriffs, and treasurers. Recipients must be full-time students in a baccalaureate degree, associate degree, or vocational/technical certification program.

4/30

All About Education Scholarship

($3,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "How will a $3,000 scholarship for education make a difference in your life?"

4/30

E-waste Scholarship

($1,000) - Complete the application form including a 140-character message about e-waste. The top 10 applications will be selected as finalists. The finalists will be asked to write a full length 500- to 1,000-word essay about e-waste.

4/30

HENAAC Scholarship

($500-$10,000) - Applicants must be of Hispanic origin and/or must significantly demonstrate leadership or service within the Hispanic community. 

4/30

International Teamster Women’s Caucus Scholarship Program

($500) - For daughters/sons of active or retired Teamster members who have at least 12 months of consecutive membership in good standing. Need to submit a 500 to 750 words on the following topic in your own words: “How can Unions motivate our youth and women in particular to become involved in the Union?”

5/1

The Paradigm Challenge

($200 - $100,000) - For students aged 4 to 18.  Must collaborate to solve a real-life problem.

5/1

KMR Group Foundation

($1,000-$3,500) – For HS seniors graduating from high schools in Clark or Cowlitz counties. 

5/27

NAEHCY Scholarship Fund

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Applicant must be under the age of 21, as of September 1, 2022
• Applicant be actively pursuing post-secondary education
• Applicant must be eligible for McKinney-Vento assistance or have experienced
homelessness while in school within the last six years
• Undocumented students who meet these criteria are eligible
• Parameters on homeless status are defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act.

5/27

Humane Education Network: A Voice for Animals HS Essay Contest

For HS students (ages 14-19). $150-$650. Rules & requirements may vary from year to year.

5/31

AISES Intel Growing the Legacy Scholarship

For American Indian/Alaska Native AISES members pursuing degrees in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Material Science.

5/31

UW Young Executives of Color Program

This 9-month college pipeline program hosted by the UW Foster School of Business. Students attend sessions on the UW campus one Saturday every month for college preparation, business lectures, professional development, and powerful mentorship. 

5/31

American Indian College Fund Full Circle Scholarship

For American Indian and Alaska Native college students seeking technical, undergraduate, and graduate degrees at tribal colleges and other nonprofit, accredited schools. Any Native American U.S. citizen that is a member or descendant of a state or federally recognized tribe with at least a 2.0 grade point average and enrolled as a full-time student can apply for a scholarship.

5/31

Fifth Month Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "May is the fifth month of the year. Write a letter to the number five explaining why five is important. Be serious or be funny. Either way, here's a high five to you for being original." Must be 14 years of age or older at time of application.

5/31

1-800-Wheelchair Scholarship Fund

($500) - Please submit a 'visual poem', in a style of your choosing, on the theme of overcoming a personal challenge. 

5/31

A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship

($1,000) – For American Indian/Alaska Native/Native Hawaiian AISES members pursuing degrees in the sciences, engineering, medicine, natural resources, math & technology. Students are required to submit 3 essays (prompts provided), up to 1,000 words each. 

5/31

American Atheists Founders’ Scholarship

For atheist students attending graduate, law, college, university, or vocational school in the United States; you do not have to be a U.S. citizen to be awarded the scholarship, but you do have to attend a U.S.-based institution

GEAR UP Scholarship Bulletin

SCHOLARSHIPS & OPPORTUNITIES

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

Scholarship

Brief Description

Due

Washington Association of County Officials

($3,000) - The fund awards up to three $3,000 scholarships to eligible children of county employees and county elected officials in the following offices: assessors, auditors, clerks, coroners, medical examiners, prosecutors, sheriffs, and treasurers. Recipients must be full-time students in a baccalaureate degree, associate degree, or vocational/technical certification program.

4/30

All About Education Scholarship

($3,000) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "How will a $3,000 scholarship for education make a difference in your life?"

4/30

E-waste Scholarship

($1,000) - Complete the application form including a 140-character message about e-waste. The top 10 applications will be selected as finalists. The finalists will be asked to write a full length 500- to 1,000-word essay about e-waste.

4/30

HENAAC Scholarship

($500-$10,000) - Applicants must be of Hispanic origin and/or must significantly demonstrate leadership or service within the Hispanic community. 

4/30

International Teamster Women’s Caucus Scholarship Program

($500) - For daughters/sons of active or retired Teamster members who have at least 12 months of consecutive membership in good standing. Need to submit a 500 to 750 words on the following topic in your own words: “How can Unions motivate our youth and women in particular to become involved in the Union?”

5/1

The Paradigm Challenge

($200 - $100,000) - For students aged 4 to 18.  Must collaborate to solve a real-life problem.

5/1

KMR Group Foundation

($1,000-$3,500) – For HS seniors graduating from high schools in Clark or Cowlitz counties. 

5/27

NAEHCY Scholarship Fund

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Applicant must be under the age of 21, as of September 1, 2022
• Applicant be actively pursuing post-secondary education
• Applicant must be eligible for McKinney-Vento assistance or have experienced
homelessness while in school within the last six years
• Undocumented students who meet these criteria are eligible
• Parameters on homeless status are defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act.

5/27

Humane Education Network: A Voice for Animals HS Essay Contest

For HS students (ages 14-19). $150-$650. Rules & requirements may vary from year to year.

5/31

AISES Intel Growing the Legacy Scholarship

For American Indian/Alaska Native AISES members pursuing degrees in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Material Science.

5/31

UW Young Executives of Color Program

This 9-month college pipeline program hosted by the UW Foster School of Business. Students attend sessions on the UW campus one Saturday every month for college preparation, business lectures, professional development, and powerful mentorship. 

5/31

American Indian College Fund Full Circle Scholarship

For American Indian and Alaska Native college students seeking technical, undergraduate, and graduate degrees at tribal colleges and other nonprofit, accredited schools. Any Native American U.S. citizen that is a member or descendant of a state or federally recognized tribe with at least a 2.0 grade point average and enrolled as a full-time student can apply for a scholarship.

5/31

Fifth Month Scholarship

($1,500) - In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "May is the fifth month of the year. Write a letter to the number five explaining why five is important. Be serious or be funny. Either way, here's a high five to you for being original." Must be 14 years of age or older at time of application.

5/31

1-800-Wheelchair Scholarship Fund

($500) - Please submit a 'visual poem', in a style of your choosing, on the theme of overcoming a personal challenge. 

5/31

A.T. Anderson Memorial Scholarship

($1,000) – For American Indian/Alaska Native/Native Hawaiian AISES members pursuing degrees in the sciences, engineering, medicine, natural resources, math & technology. Students are required to submit 3 essays (prompts provided), up to 1,000 words each. 

5/31

American Atheists Founders’ Scholarship

For atheist students attending graduate, law, college, university, or vocational school in the United States; you do not have to be a U.S. citizen to be awarded the scholarship, but you do have to attend a U.S.-based institution

5/31

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