Moving from childhood to adulthood during high school can be challenging, with expectations growing as students progress through these four years. As they go from being freshmen to senior students, their future awaits. The rising cost of college makes things tough for average students who want to pursue higher education for a better start in life, but worry about their grades for scholarships.
Some believe that only top grades catch the eye of scholarship committees. But the truth is, most of us are average, including the people on these committees. A prime example of an average student is David Letterman, who openly acknowledges not being a high achiever. However, he possesses creative talents. In 1985, he established a scholarship at his old school, Ball State University, for students studying telecommunications. Grades are not crucial to win; instead, the focus is on creativity and a reasonable plan to enter the telecommunications industry.
Funds are available for various students, not just star athletes or top academics. You need to stand out, whether by community involvement or writing skills. Here are nine other scholarships where GPA isn't everything:
1. Duck Tape Prom Date Scholarship: Duck Tape offers serious scholarships for creative prom attire made from their tape. This fun contest has multiple winners, including "best purse" and "best tie" categories. A creative student could enjoy and benefit from this scholarship.
2. American Fire Sprinkler Association Scholarship Program: No need for excellent grades or financial hardship. Read an essay about fire sprinklers, take an online test, and enter a drawing for $2,000 or $1,000 scholarships. Learning about sprinklers can pay off.
3. Dell Scholars Program: Run by the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation, this program helps students prepare for college. Participants for two years can apply for scholarships, focusing on determination, goals, and overcoming challenges, with a minimum GPA requirement. Financial need is considered, along with personal qualities crucial for college success.
4. Best Buy: Awarded for academic achievement, work experience, and/or community service. Best Buy supports students in acquiring necessary tech skills. They offer 1,200 scholarships annually, $1,000 each, to students in grades 9-12. Application isn't limited to juniors or seniors.
5. AXA-Equitable Scholarship: One student from each state wins $10,000. Ten from these go on to win $15,000 and a possible internship. Beyond academics, they value ambition, drive, respect, and community impact. Winners have set up food banks and educational initiatives.
6. Segal AmeriCorps Education Award: Instead of mandatory service, consider valuable voluntary community service for young adults in the U.S. AmeriCorps offers this opportunity, providing education scholarships, equivalent to Pell Grant ($5,500). Some colleges match this award and special student loan programs are available. Academic record isn't crucial, just service.
7. Dr. Pepper Million Dollar Give Away: Skilled at football? Dr. Pepper once gave scholarships during college football halftime shows for accurate throws into big cans. While unsure if this will continue, it's worth tracking for those good under pressure and experienced in throwing.
8. Collegiate Inventors Competition: Like Einstein, who struggled in school but excelled as an inventor, this competition values practical inventions over GPA. Open to current college students with faculty advisors, the top prize is $12,500.
9. Career-Specific Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available for specific careers. Too many to list here, but ScholarshipsAmerica.org has a section with links to many scholarship resource pages.
10. Unusual Scholarships: Let's talk about unique scholarships for those with quirky sides—since we all have quirks! Some options include organ donor youth leadership, aquatic entomology, Ayn Rand essay contest, National "Make-it-Yourself" with Wool, and the Gertrude Deppen Scholarship (for non-users of tobacco, liquor, and drugs who avoid intense sports). There are scholarships for tall (Tall Club International) or short people (Little People of America by the Billy Barty Foundation), and even left-handed individuals. Seek out these scholarships.
Funding for College: Despite odd options, finding college funds is important. There's a path for average students. Start early; many scholarships accept applications during high school, even in sophomore years. Writing about passions like social justice, religion, or politics can help. Early starts hone writing and application skills, possibly sparking unexpected progress.
Remember, the journey to securing scholarships can be exciting and transformative. It's about discovering opportunities, showcasing your uniqueness, and taking steps towards your educational goals.