Scholarship Season: Don’t Pass Up Free Money

May 15, 2012

One more thing to do before declaring the school year finished: Apply for scholarships.

This is the scholarship application season, and I’ve heard that only a fraction of eligible students take the time to apply for scholarships–many of which don’t require much effort. I sponsor one of those scholarships through the PRSA Foundation for undergraduate students who are recognized as mentors on campus. The application process is quite simple–a professor, advisor or fellow student simply fills out a nomination form. The application deadline is one month away — June 15.

Last year’s $1,000 scholarship winner was Joe Clarkson of Ohio Northern University. Joe was nominated by his PRSSA chapter adviser and others, who cited his ability to balance academics, sports and deep involvement in PRSSA, both at the local and national level. I presented the award to Joe at last year’s PRSSA national conference in Orlando, and he’s stayed in touch as he pursues his first full-time job. He’s definitely a future leader of our profession.

PRSA offers several other scholarships, plus check with your financial aid offices and faculty advisers for information regarding other scholarship opportunities.