I'm really into mountain biking and would love to continue this hobby in college. Are there specific scholarships for students who are into mountain biking?
Certainly, scholarships can come from unexpected places, and for something as niche as mountain biking, you might be pleasantly surprised at what's available.
For example, the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) provides various scholarships through its Share the Ride program, which are specifically geared towards mountain biking. It's aimed at helping youth riders who exhibit an exceptional commitment to their community and mountain biking but may have financial barriers to participation. They provide community service and leadership scholarships worth varying amounts.
Additionally, you might want to check with colleges that have mountain biking teams. They may offer scholarships to athletes who join the team, although this varies by school. For instance, Lees-McRae College in North Carolina has a strong cycling team and offers scholarships to members.
Bear in mind that some scholarships are local or regional, so it might be beneficial to explore options in your specific area. Mountain biking clubs, gear shops, and race organizers might know about local scholarship opportunities.
Lastly, it's important to remember that while there might be scholarships specific to mountain biking, don't limit yourself to just these. When it comes to funding education, be sure to look for other scholarships that you might be eligible for, based on academic achievements, community service, other hobbies, etc. College funding usually comes from multiple sources, so exploring all your options can be beneficial.
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