By tamara
Can you believe Thanksgiving will be here in just a few short weeks? It’s a time not only to enjoy the company of your family and friends (and tons of great food!), but also to reflect upon what you may be grateful for this past year. For new college students, it may be something as simple as surviving your first mid-terms. High school seniors, on the other hand, may simply be thankful for the short break from college applications (breathe, it’s almost over!). We, of course, are thankful for each and every student, parent, and educator who trusts us to help him or her find free money for college. In keeping with the giving spirit of the holiday, we’ve assembled a bountiful list of November scholarships. But, you have to hurry because just like pumpkin pie at grandma’s house, these will disappear soon!
1. Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program
Students who are 19 years of age or younger may enter this essay contest. The winner will earn a fat $30,000 scholarship for college. Now that’s something to really be thankful for! Deadline: November 1.
2. Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest
This November scholarship program, sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), is open to students in grades six through eight. The winner will receive a $5,000 scholarship and a trip to Washington, D.C. next year. You’d have to be a real turkey not to apply. Deadline: November 1.
3. Prudential Spirit of Community Award
Students must be in grades 5 through 12 and have a history of volunteer service over the past 12 months. One hundred and two (102) state winners will each receive $1,000. A total of 10 students will be selected from the state winners and recognized as national honorees, receiving an additional $5,000 each. How’s that for icing on the cake? Deadline: November 4.
4. Wholesale Halloween Costumes Scholarship
This $500 November scholarship will be awarded to the student (16 years or older) who comes up with the most creative pumpkin carving photo. Yes, we know Halloween isn’t in November, but what’s Thanksgiving without a little pumpkin pie? Deadline: November 5.
5. Annual Sphinx Competition
Music adds a bit of ambiance to any holiday meal. Students who play violin or other stringed instruments can entertain their guests and also win up to $50,000 for college through this musical competition. Applicants must be African American or Hispanic, as well as 26 years of age or younger. Deadline: November 11.
6. Sport Clips Help a Hero Scholarship
We are all thankful to our military men and women for protecting our country, and that’s why Sport Clips Haircuts has teamed with the VFW to provide up to $5,000 to an active duty member, reservist, honorably discharged, or military veteran through this scholarship program. Deadline: November 15.
7. First Freedom Student Competition
This essay and video contest from First Freedom Center is open to current high school students. Two $2,500 scholarships will be provided to the students who best explain the importance of religious freedom in the modern world. That’s something to really sink your teeth into. Deadline: November 17.
8. CourseHorse Learner’s Scholarship
Here’s something to be thankful for…a November scholarship with no application! Students (25 and younger) must simply submit a one-page document or one-minute video describing a topic they’re passionate about learning. One winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Deadline: November 25.
9. Slam Behind the Curtain Scholarship
Oh Thanksgiving, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Students (25 and younger) with an affinity for poetry should be able to satisfy their appetites with this $1,000 scholarship. Deadline: November 30.
10. Education Matters Scholarship
Students, 13 years of age or older, may enter this easy essay (250 words or less) contest. The winner will receive a $5,000 scholarship for college, which is enough moolah to stuff quite a few turkeys. Deadline: November 30.
If you get a few moments to spare this month, write down a list of what (or whom) you are thankful for and share it with others. And, don’t forget to stop by and see your favorite teachers or professors. Let them know how much you appreciate their support and guidance. You are not the only one who is busy this time of year, and a thank you card or plate of cookies is a great way to show you care.