Dealing with mental health challenges has motivated me to pursue a career in psychology. Are there any college scholarships for students who have struggled with depression and anxiety? How can I find them and apply?
There absolutely are scholarships out there aimed at supporting students dealing with mental health challenges. Here are a few examples:
1. JED's Student Voice of Mental Health Award - This is a $3,000 scholarship recognizing an undergraduate student in the U.S. who has made a difference in the field of mental health.
2. The Baer Reintegration Scholarship - This is for individuals affected by bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or a schizoaffective disorder. It’s potentially a full scholarship, intended for high school, undergrad or graduate students pursuing their education.
3. Incight Scholarships - This awards scholarships to students with any disability, which can include mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
Application processes vary, but generally, they'll involve filling out an application form and often writing an essay discussing your experiences. Deadlines also differ by scholarship, so you'll want to start researching these opportunities well in advance.
Remember, these are just a few examples. You can find more scholarships by using scholarship databases like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, or Appily. These platforms allow you to input your personal information (like your intended major and personal interests) and will match you with scholarship opportunities that align with your profile. You might also look into your local community organizations, foundations, or check if any regional psychological associations offer scholarships for students with similar interests or experiences.
Remember, your mental health experiences don't define you but they are part of your story and can be used to emphasize your resilience, determination, and commitment to the field of psychology. Use your personal statement or essay to explain how your experiences have shaped your future goals.
Good luck with your search!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.