You can start saving tuition dollars early.
It seems like so many college scholarships are geared exclusively toward high school juniors and seniors. As a high school freshman who wishes to be proactive in planning financially for college, you may feel discouraged. Nevertheless, a number of lucrative scholarship opportunities are available to you.
Action for Nature: Young Eco-Hero Awards
If you're a budding environmentalist, you may be interested in the Young Eco-Hero Awards. You must have completed or nearly completed an environmental project on your own initiative. For example, past winners have begun vegetable gardens at their schools and promoted awareness of environmental issues through blogs and other media. If you think you have a winning project, submit an application, available through the contest website, detailing your project and how the experience has affected you. Winners will receive prizes of up to $500.
The Ayn Rand Institute: "Anthem" Essay Contest
The "Anthem" essay contest is one way to show off your writing skills and earn some money for college in the process. Prepare for the scholarship by reading Ayn Rand's novella, "Anthem." When you are finished, write a 600 to 1200 word essay on one of the three topics listed on the contest website. The grand prize winner will receive $2000, with several smaller awards available to runners up.
Courageous Persuaders Scholarship
Consider entering the Courageous Persuaders scholarship program if you are handy with a camera -- or have friends who are. Participating alone or as a group, your goal is to produce and submit a 30-second commercial warning your peers about the dangers of underage drinking.
The program consists of awards for Michigan residents only and national awards. Those entering the Michigan awards will be eligible for scholarships of up to $3000, with the grand prize winner's commercial aired on television. Those entering the national awards will have the chance to win up to $2000. The program will divide the winnings amongst your group members if applicable.
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