What are leadership scholarships for college students?

I've been involved in several leadership roles in high school, and I'm curious if there are scholarships that recognize leadership for college-bound students. What kind of leadership scholarships are available, and how competitive are they?

Yes, there are several scholarships out there geared toward students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership during their high school years. They recognize students who have made significant contributions to their communities and have taken the initiative to enact change or achieve goals. These scholarships take into account the applicants' leadership experience, the impact they've had, and their potential for future leadership.

One well-known leadership scholarship is the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation scholarship which offers $20,000 awards to students who display academic excellence, leadership, and service. The application involves sharing your leadership experiences and submitting a school adviser's recommendation.

Another notable program is the Ron Brown Scholar Program. This scholarship focuses on leadership, and public service, and offers $40,000 awards to students who show promise in these areas.

The GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship is yet another opportunity for student leaders, providing $10,000 renewable scholarships to those who embody the vision and values personified by President Reagan.

Leadership scholarships can be competitive, primarily due to the number of students who engage in leadership activities. Application processes often involve thorough assessments of a candidate’s leadership activities and impacts, as well as interviews or essays that provide the opportunity for you to express your visions, efforts, and accomplishments. To enhance your chances, try to highlight not just what roles you've held, but also the change you've driven, the initiatives you've led, and the unique qualities that make you stand out as a leader.

Remember to check the eligibility requirements for each scholarship as they may have specific criteria beyond leadership qualities that applicants must meet, such as being a resident of a particular state or planning to attend a certain type of institution.

Beyond these national scholarships, many colleges and universities also offer leadership scholarships to incoming first-year students. So, while applying for scholarships, don’t forget to check out the opportunities available at your prospective schools.