by Tara Durheim
Amid the pandemic and the unique challenges it has presented to our area high school seniors, their teachers and their loved ones this year, planning for life after graduation is likely a daunting task. With the fluctuations between in-person, hybrid and remote learning models, it can be hard to think about what possibilities lie ahead.
However, if you or a high school senior you know is thinking about pursuing a 2-year or 4-year college degree, now is the time to apply for scholarships that can help cover some of the costs that come with it.
Community Giving, an organization based in St. Cloud that connects partner foundations to local needs, has more than 100 scholarships available, and all area students are welcome to apply.
Among the vast list of options available to students on the Community Giving website, there are scholarships specifically for students at each area high school (including St. Cloud Apollo), first generation college students (like many of our Somali neighbors) and more.
The criteria for each scholarship is unique so it’s important applicants review the information carefully before submitting the necessary application materials. Some scholarships listed on the website require students to go to their school guidance counselor for more information, while some list the full requirements online.
According to the Community Giving website, online applications open on Dec. 1, but the application deadlines vary.
New to the scholarship application process?
Here is a list of application materials students typically need to prepare:
• An essay and/or statement of need, usually specific to the prompts provided by the scholarship.
• Letters of recommendation from non-family members.
• Electronic transcript.
To learn more about the scholarships available through Community Giving, visit https://www.communitygiving.org/scholarship/high_school or get in touch with your school’s guidance counselor.
If you would like additional help in applying for these scholarships, contact Jeff Velline of Cultural Bridges at jeff vee@rockhousepro.com or 320-493-9343.
