Are there scholarships for high school juniors in Connecticut?

I'm a junior in Connecticut, and I've heard some scholarships are available for us even before senior year. Anyone know which ones I should be looking out for?

Absolutely! There are numerous scholarships available to high school juniors in the state of Connecticut. Here are a few to consider:

1. The Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority (CHESLA) Scholarship: A state-funded initiative awarding a set number of scholarships to Connecticut high school juniors who plan to attend a Connecticut state college or university.

2. The B. Davis Scholarship: This is a national scholarship, not specific to Connecticut, but Connecticut students are eligible. High school juniors and seniors are eligible to apply. It requires a 1,000-word essay on leadership.

3. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards: Open to Connecticut students who have made meaningful contributions through volunteer service in their local communities.

4. The Americanism Essay Contest: Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, this contest asks students to write an essay on a patriotic theme.

5. The Gen and Kelly Tanabe Scholarship: This is also open to students across the nation, including Connecticut. It's a merit-based program looking for students who demonstrate strong academic abilities.

One important note: Keep in mind that while these scholarships are aimed at high school juniors or younger, most scholarship money is intended for seniors. Still, it's a great idea to start looking early and get any applications possible done now.

Lastly, remember that scholarships aren't the only way to pay for college. There's also financial aid, and you can start preparing for the FAFSA by learning about the Student Aid Index (SAI) calculation. Don't forget to use the net price calculators available on college websites to get a sense of what your family may be expected to pay at different institutions. You can also consider Connecticut's in-state colleges, which often offer lower tuition rates for state residents.

Again, the process of seeking scholarships can seem overwhelming, but with a little perseverance, you'll find opportunities out there that match your strengths and interests. Best of luck as you continue your journey to college!