By tamara
This past weekend, my kids were begging me to bring all the Christmas decorations down from the attic. Personally, I just can’t see decorating before I’ve had the chance to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner, but this year it seems to be taking a backseat. It could be that Thanksgiving falls so late in November that everyone is already thinking ahead and getting a jump on his or her holiday planning; I know my kids started making out their Christmas wish lists weeks ago. There’s the inevitable request for the new PS4 and the games to go with it, but my daughter, who typically leans toward clothes and cosmetics, wants a retro record player this year. I find it amusing that she thinks it’s so cool to play vinyl albums to hear the ‘raw’ sound of music, when it really wasn’t that long ago that they were tossed aside for CDs. Oh well, what’s old is new again, I guess. I just hope parachute pants never make a comeback. Anyway, it got me thinking about other things that should be on her wish list, especially now that she nearing the end of her junior year in high school. One thing that should definitely make her list (or any student’s) is scholarships. Luckily, there are tons of programs with deadlines in December. If you know some students, naughty or nice, who could use some college cash, be sure to share this scholarship wish list with them.
1. Amelia Earhart Memorial Flight Training Scholarships
Do you know a female student who has always dreamed of being a pilot? Surprise her with this $2,000 scholarship that will help cover the expenses of obtaining a pilot’s license. Deadline: December 1.
2. Chuck Hall Star of Tomorrow Scholarship
Thanksgiving is all about the turkey, and speaking of turkeys…if you have a bowler on your holiday list, this $6,000 award is sure to please! Deadline: December 1.
3. Sonlight Scholarship
Finding scholarships specifically for homeschooled students can be a challenge, but I’ve got your back. Here’s a program that awards 13 scholarships to those heading to college next year. Deadline: December 4.
4. Health Law Student Writing Competition
If you have a law student on your shopping list, you know that money is always welcome. Surprise your future legal eagle with this $500 essay contest. Deadline: December 6.
5. Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship
Does Comcast provide cable service in your area? If so, and you have a high school senior to shop for, share this $1,000 opportunity with him/her. There are nearly 1,900 scholarships available. Deadline: December 7.
6. Youth Free Expression Film Contest
For those of you who have younger students at home, add this $5,000 film scholarship to their stockings this year! Deadline: December 13.
7. Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund
The holidays are especially hard on military families, especially when a parent is deployed overseas. This scholarship rewards the children of those who made the ultimate sacrifice or have been permanently disabled in the line of duty. Deadline: December 15.
8. $7,500 Student Debt Smackdown Contest
Do you know someone with student loan debt? Here’s the perfect gift…a $7,500 scholarship to help lower their bills. Deadline: December 15.
9. Bruce Fishkin Scholarship Fund
When it comes to great holiday surprises, nothing could surpass this full-ride scholarship (valued at $200,000) that is available to high school juniors and seniors. Deadline: December 15.
10. DefensiveDriving.com Scholarship
If you can’t give the student on your holiday list a new car, why not share this $1,500 video contest with him/her? Safe driving lessons are always a smart investment. Deadline: December 15.
11. Deals.Servicebundles.Com Infographic Scholarship
Are you looking for that unique gift for someone special on your list. Why not wrap up this $1,000 infographic scholarship? Deadline: December 18.
12. Healthy Lifestyles Scholarship
Why wait until the New Year to get healthy? Share this $5,000 scholarship and get financially fit right now! Deadline: December 30.
13. CaptainU Student-Athlete Scholarship
For the athlete in your life, here’s a $2,000 scholarship that’s sure to be more appreciated than any soccer ball or baseball bat. Deadline: December 31.
14. Good Deeds Scholarship
Volunteers are always needed during the holidays, but few are recognized for their efforts. If you know a student who gives back, here’s your chance to help them win $1,000 for college. Deadline: December 31.
15. Top Ten List
Can you name 10 reasons why you or your loved one deserves a scholarship? Submit your list for a chance to win $1,500. Deadline: December 31.
Hopefully, you’ve found something on this list to satisfy all the students on your holiday shopping list, or maybe you could use some of these for yourself. The good news is that many of these programs are easy to enter and will provide a lasting memory. Personally, I can’t think of a better gift than helping someone finance their college education. Happy Holidays!