The Pathfinder Scholarships are merit scholarships designed to support High Rocks leaders that are dedicated to education and service in their pursuit of post-high school educational plans while strengthening the connections between recent program alums and younger participants.
Amount: $1,000
Renewable: Yes, up to 5 years
Eligibility & Preference: This application is open to all high school seniors and current college students. Preference is given to young people who have participated in High Rocks activities and programs. Two of the awarded scholarships may also give preference to students entering a trade or vocational school. Graduate students may apply but preference will be given to undergraduate students.
Application Deadline: April 1st, 2024
Notice of Awards: No later than June 1st, 2024
Proof of Enrollment: Proof of enrollment in the school/program you will be attending must be submitted no later than July 1st, 2024. Proof of enrollment can be a picture/screenshot of your class schedule or other documentation from your school/program.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What is a merit scholarship?
A merit scholarship is one that is based on your accomplishments, not on your financial need.
What can I use the scholarship money for?
You can use your $1,000 for anything that you need to help you succeed in school; it may be used for tuition, books, to help buy a car if you need one for school, child-care, etc. We ask Pathfinders to use their money wisely and prudently under our honor code system. We would like to know how the money helped you and we ask that you include this information in your letter to Naomi, Harvey, and the High Rocks staff (more information to follow).
If I am awarded a scholarship, how do I renew it?
In order to renew your scholarship, you will need to complete a pathfinder renewal form by April 1st of each year you plan to renew as well as these requirements:
- Volunteer a minimum 8 hours a year with a High Rocks program or initiative. For example, you could volunteer a day or two at camp, be a tutor, write thank-you notes to donors or help with a college trip. Our younger participants need you as a role model and the staff needs your help and insight! Volunteer hours must be scheduled/coordinated with High Rocks Academy Manager, Kayla Reed (kayla@highrocks.org or 304-653-4891), in advance.
- Maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher; you will be asked to submit a current transcript with your renewal form.
- Submit proof of enrollment for the upcoming term with your renewal form; proof of enrollment can be a picture/screenshot of your class schedule or other documentation from your school/program.
- Write a thank-you letter to Naomi Cohen/Harvey Cohen/the High Rocks Staff to include with your renewal form telling us how your year went (high points, challenges, accomplishments, etc.) and how the money helped you.
I’ve been out of school for a while. Can I still be a Pathfinder Scholar?
Of course! High Rocks knows that life isn’t always a straight path; in fact, it almost never is. If you’ve been out of school – congratulations on getting motivated to continue your education. We want to do everything we can to support you.