As an active Girl Scout, I'm interested in finding college scholarships specifically for scouts. Does anyone know where I should start looking, or what kind of awards are available for someone like me?
Indeed, as an active Girl Scout, there are several scholarships available to you. They mostly fall into three broad categories: those offered by Girl Scouts of the USA, those offered by specific Girl Scout councils, and those offered by outside entities recognizing involvement in scouting.
Girl Scouts of the USA offers the Young Woman of Distinction scholarship each year to ten Gold Award Girl Scouts who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills. This scholarship can be quite competitive but is a considerable award.
On a smaller scale, many local Girl Scout Councils offer scholarships to graduating high school seniors who have been active in their council and have shown outstanding service to their community. These scholarships can vary in amount and number, so it's best to check with your local council for specific information.
Many colleges and universities also offer scholarships specifically for Girl Scouts, especially those who have earned the Gold Award, which is the highest achievement within the Girl Scouts of the USA. These can run the gamut from small, one-time awards to noteworthy scholarships that cover a significant percentage of your tuition.
Finally, numerous organizations offer scholarships that are not solely for Girl Scouts, but where your involvement and leadership in scouting would be a significant factor. These include organizations like the Daughters of the American Revolution, which has scholarships for women demonstrating leadership and service to the community.
Remember to start gathering information about these scholarships in advance, as they often have early deadlines and could require applications or other materials. Expand your horizon too; don't limit yourself only to Girl Scout-specific scholarships. Many scholarships are for individuals demonstrating leadership, commitment to service, or interest in certain areas - all characteristics you've likely developed as a Girl Scout. Good luck with the search!
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