Susan Metheny, Program Manager at the Berrien Community Foundation, joined Zack to talk about the many scholarships available to Berrien County Students.
Over 45 scholarship programs available for students in Berrien County.
How did we get so many scholarships?
Back in the 80’s we started with the Jon & Dede Howard Instrumental Music Scholarship
Each year we add several new ones
How are scholarships created?
A scholarship can be created by an individual, family, organization.
Donors create scholarships to honor a loved one, award benevolent behavior, encourage a particular profession or talent, etc…
All Scholarships at BCF are endowed. This means that we only spend the interest that the scholarship fund earns, so it lasts forever.
Contact the Foundation if you are interested in learning more about starting a scholarship.
Who can get a scholarship?
Anyone who wishes to pursue their education in Berrien County. We have scholarships for Graduating HS Seniors, Current College Students and Adults going back to school.
Do I have to be a straight A super student?
Not necessarily…while we do have a few scholarships looking for the elite, Big-Ten type student (Like the Drews Scholarship at Lakeshore HS) , we have many more scholarships that are looking for someone who shows financial need (Trefz Family Scholarship), has been a volunteer (Passaro Family Scholarship) , has a talent (Rodney Weir Marching Band Scholarship or the David Hicks Scholarship for the Arts)
Our Average GPA requirement on most of the scholarships we have is 2.5.
Some scholarships are for a particular school district.
How much $$$ can I earn in a scholarship?
BCF Scholarships range from a single payment of $1,000 to multi-year scholarships of $10k-$12K
What about Early Middle College Students?
We encourage Early Middle College students to apply for our scholarships when they reach their final year of that program. For most that means after “13th” grade.
How and when do I apply?
Scholarships are available mid-december at www.berriencommunity.org/scholar. You download a word doc that is the application. Type it up, add your other required items like your FAFSA, Essay question, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and mail it to us.
They are due Friday, March 5. Decisions are made in early May.
Questions? Call or email Susan Matheny you can find her on BCF website at www.berriencommunity.org/scholar
