Paying for college in the new “Middle Ages”
The old adage “knowledge is power” is an agreed upon theorem in our society. With the increasing tuition hikes on students, the barrier to entry in formal education can send the wrong message that only those with a lot of money can be educated, ergo “power is power”. Can this still be as true in 2011 as it was in the Middle Ages? Luckily, there are many organizations now that will help students with loans, grants and scholarships.
I’d like to take a moment to outline some truly free money for students. Here is the list of some of our favorite scholarship and grant opportunities:
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program (GMS) GMS will select 1,000 talented students each year to receive a good-through-graduation scholarship to use at any college or university of their choice. Gates Millennium Scholars receive personal and professional development through our leadership programs along with academic support throughout their college career.
Microsoft Imagine Cup ($3 Million total over the next 3 years) Microsoft Corp. recently announced the winners of the ninth annual Microsoft World-Wide Imagine Cup, the world’s premier student technology competition, honoring student innovations that address global problems such as improving road and fire safety, eradicating poverty, and creating a more sustainable environment. The company also unveiled plans to launch a three-year, $3 million competitive grant program to help recipients realize their vision of solving the world’s toughest problems. Start the process by signing up here U.S or Worldwide
The College JumpStart Scholarship Fund ($1500): The College JumpStart Scholarship is available to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors; and current college students. To be considered for this award, you must be committed to going to school and be able express your goals for getting a higher education.
The Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship ($1000): is open to ninth through twelfth grade high school students, college students, and graduate students who are legal U.S. residents. Students not currently in school must plan to enroll in a higher education program within 12 months. You must submit a 250 - word personal statement to be considered for this award. The award may be used for tuition, room and board, books, or any related educational expense.
The E-Waste Drive Campaign Scholarship ($10,000) is available to students ages 25 and under who are U.S. citizens. In order to qualify for this award, you must run a drive to collect e-waste, deliver the e-waste to your local Best Buy store, and fill out a report back form.
There also options for distinct groups:
Regional- https://bit.ly/r5c8tp
Ethnicity- https://bit.ly/n0Jx9R
Disability- https://bit.ly/qknUyM
Military- https://bit.ly/pVblss
Other great sites to check out: