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PrintWhen it comes to paying for college, high school grades, activities and college entrance exam scores can be as good as gold.
Many colleges offer significant non-need based scholarships based on a wide range of student achievements. Outside organizations award money as well. Winners don't necessarily have to have the top grades or scores to qualify.
Many of the awards are renewable, which usually means they are good for four years as long as the student meets certain requirements, typically maintaining a certain grade point average.
Below is a sampling of some Western Pennsylvania students who won scholarships, from the high school Class of 2006 unless otherwise noted.
Kelli Burke, 18, of Brookline
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Kelli Burke Click photo for larger image. |
College: Allegheny College
Major: Physics
Scholarships accepted: Allegheny College Trustees Scholarship, $15,000 a year, renewable
Basis of award: Usually in the top 25% of high school class, SAT score of 1200 combined math and critical reading. Consideration given to achievements in areas such as: art, communications (newspaper, radio, TV), creative writing, dance, theater, debate/forensics, leadership, music, religious activities, science or math competitions, scouting, volunteer or community service, or other extracurricular activities.
What student had to do: Regular application process
Other Scholarships accepted: Gail N. Platt Scholarship, $889 award, required an essay on an arts experience; Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship, $1,500, federally funded but managed by PHEAA.
GPA: 4.45
SAT: 1290 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: AP English literature, English language, U.S. history, Physics 2, statistics
Activities: Marching, concert and jazz bands; All-City Honors Band; Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 1 Band; Westinghouse Science Honors Institute; volunteer in faith formation office at Resurrection Church in Brookline; Girl Scout, Pennsylvania Math League, cheerleader one year; organized pet supply drive for Animal Friends.
Advice: "I would look in your community and through your school, and, if you're involved in your church, see if your church has a scholarship."
Brandon Goeller, 19, of O'Hara
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Brandon Goeller Click photo for larger image. |
College: Allegheny College
Major: Biology, with emphasis on aquatic biology
Scholarship accepted: Allegheny College's Trustees Scholarship, $12,500 a year, renewable
Basis of award: Usually in the top 25% of high school class, SAT score of 1200 combined math and critical reading. Consideration given to achievements in areas such as: art, communications (newspaper, radio, TV), creative writing, dance, theater, debate/forensics, leadership, music, religious activities, science or math competitions, scouting, volunteer or community service, or other extracurricular activities.
What student had to do: Regular application process
Other Scholarships accepted: Beulah Frey Environmental Scholarship from the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, one-time award of $1,000; Greater Beneficial Union Foundation, $1,500, paid out over four years, open to GBU members or annuitants with active life insurance policy or annuity. Both required special applications, including essays.
GPA: 4.13
SAT: 1200 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: English, biology, environmental science, economics, calculus AB.
Activities: Football, wrestling, track, vice president German Club and Technology Student Association, first-place in structural engineering contest, National Honor Society, Eagle Scout, head dancer for German dancing club, activities at St. Mary of Assumption Church, including youth group, usher, altar server and mission trips to West Virginia.
Advice: "They're out there definitely. Look for them and make yourself aware of the money you can get a hold of. Check with guidance counselors, teachers or FastWeb. ...
"Consider all of your possibilities. The environmental scholarship I won was definitely right up my alley because that's what I'm going to be studying in college."
Leah Antkiewicz, 18, of Center Township, Beaver County
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Leah Antkiewicz Click photo for larger image. |
College: Bucknell University
Major: Computer science and engineering
Scholarships accepted: PGA (Professional Golfers Association) Financial Assistance Fund Scholarship, one-time $2,000 a year, reapplication possible; Bucknell University Scholarship for $16,000 a year, renewable
Basis of awards: PGA award is for members' children and grandchildren who have "demonstrated a high level of academic achievement during high school and/or college." Bucknell scholarship is for achievement.
What student had to do to get it: Special application for PGA award; regular admissions application for Bucknell award.
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarships to University of Dayton and Allegheny College
GPA: 4.45
SAT: 1280 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP/college level classes: AP: U.S. history, European history. Pitt College in High school: chemistry, calculus, visual basic, Java.
Activities: Played on boys' golf team, girls' basketball team manager, Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, chess team, math league, volunteered with Casa Beaver County and Mario Lemieux Celebrity Golf Invitational.
Advice: "Just apply to as many as possible and just try your hardest. There are so many out there that you have to get money from some of them."
Wes Roberts, 19, of Cranberry
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Wes Roberts Click photo for larger image. |
College: Campbell University in Buies Creek, N.C.
Major: Professional golf management
Scholarships accepted: Presidential Scholarship, full tuition, more than $16,000 a year, renewable
Basis of award: Requires SAT score of at least 1150, B+ average and top 10 percent of class for consideration.
What student had to do: Initially selected for $11,000 a year Presidential Scholarship; chosen among about 90 Presidential scholars to interview on campus for one of four full-tuition scholarships.
GPA: 4.2
SAT: 1260 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP/college classes: AP calculus; college-level statistics and Web page and desktop design
Activities: Basketball, track, golf, secretary of Student Council, vice president of National Honor Society, member of homecoming and prom courts
Advice: "The best thing to do is pay attention in class. That's what got me through it. ...If you're able to remember stuff like that, you're going to be able to get those grades up and get those colleges interested in you."
LaMont West II, 18, of Wilkins
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LaMont West II Click photo for larger image. |
College: Carnegie Mellon University
Major: Electrical and software engineering
Scholarships accepted: NEED scholarship, one-time $2,500; NEED scholarship, $1,000, renewable over four years. ; school-based Anthony DePaulo Memorial Scholarship, one-time $500.
Basis of award: Merit
What student had to do: All required applications and essays.
GPA: More than 4.0
SAT: 1300 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: English, physics, calculus AB, computer science.
Activities: Gifted peer tutor, Science Olympiad team, Youth IT Challenge team and mentor team, Carnegie Science Center volunteer, beautification project on North Side, Council of Three Rivers American Indian Center volunteer.
Advice: "You want to just go out and find types of companies that help people out in your areas. ...A lot of my friends have gotten scholarships from their churches."
Jessica Wille, 18, of Fox Chapel
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Jessica Wille Click photo for larger image. |
College: Carnegie Mellon University
Major: Humanities
Scholarships accepted: CMU's Andrew Carnegie Scholarship, half tuition, $17,090 a year, renewable
Basis of award: "Recognizes exceptional academic/artistic talent and personal achievements"
What student had to do: Regular CMU application.
Other scholarships: Lola G. Duff and William H. Duff II Scholarship, $10,000 a year for four years; National Merit Scholarship, one-time $2,500; Digital Credit Union Memorial Scholarship, one-time $2,500; high school French award, one-time $500.
Basis of award: Duff scholarship for Allegheny County students who are Protestant and have at least a 3.0 GPA; National Merit on PSAT scores, references; Digital Credit Union required credit union membership; French based on high school achievement and teacher nomination.
What student had to do: Most required separate applications;
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarships to Georgetown University, Northwestern University, Washington University in St. Louis and University of Southern California.
GPA: 4.43
SAT: 1540 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Calculus AB, calculus BC, two English classes, European history, U.S. history, music theory, economics, government, statistics, French.
Activities: Cellist in school orchestra, head officer of Model United Nations, officer in multicultural club, school fencing team, history club, French club, student congress.
Advice: "The biggest obstacle I had was trying to get started. When you register for FastWeb, it comes up with hundreds of opportunities. It's really hard to take the time to sort through every single thing that comes up.
"Once you get started, it's not that bad. Once you identify the scholarships you're most likely to win, it makes the process so much less painful. ...
"If you have two college essays written and they work with the scholarship, you already have the work done."
Kecia Lucas, 17, of Hill District
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Kecia Lucas Click photo for larger image. |
College: Carlow University
Major: Biology
Scholarships accepted: Carlow Presidential Scholarship, $5,000 a year, renewable; Deacon Archie Scholarship at New Light Temple Baptist Church, one-time $500; NEED, $500, renewable.
Basis of awards: Merit.
What student had to do: Regular application for Carlow; special applications for others.
GPA: 3.7
SAT: 960 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
Activities: National Honor Society, cheerleader, National Service Day, Del Teens volunteer
Advice: "I would use online data bases and your community."
Alicia Pape, 18, of Jefferson Hills
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Alicia Pape Click photo for larger image. |
College: Case Western Reserve University
Major: Engineering
Scholarship accepted: Case Presidential Scholarship, $20,800 a year (three-fourths tuition), renewable.
Basis for award: "Academics, including high school performance (GPA, class rank) and strength of high school curriculum, involvement in school and community activities, evidence of leadership, and standardized test results."
What student had to do: Regular application process
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarship from Carnegie Mellon, Duquesne University
GPA: 4.25
SAT: 1420 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Two English classes, U.S. history, European history, chemistry, biology, calculus AB and calculus BC (through Penn State distance education program).
Activities: Marching band, Latin Club, National Latin Honor Society, National Honor Society, swim team, mock trial team, Duquesne University academic challenge team and quiz team on KDKA, Carnegie Science Center volunteer.
Advice: "Make sure you do community service, stay in a few activities and really focus on your studies."
Indea Herndon, 20, of the Hill District
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Indea Herndon Click photo for larger image. |
College: Junior at Chatham College
Major: Cultural studies.
Scholarship: Elizabeth Waite Prine Scholarship, $12,000 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: For Chatham student who was a FAME (Fund for Advancement of Minorities through Education) scholarship student at a local private high school. Others can win one of two awards on basis of being a single parent or a day student.
What student had to do: Special application and meet with donor.
GPA: About 3.0
SAT: 1100 (of 1600 on old SAT)
Activities: Art programs, including sculpture, clay and photography.
Advice: "If you find that you have contacts, even the smallest contacts possible, really hold onto those. There are people who understand where you're coming from when you're looking at college. If they say they may be able to help, they might be able to help you out in the long run."
Molly McCue, 18, of Adams Township, Butler County
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Molly McCue Click photo for larger image. |
College: Denison University in Granville, Ohio
Major: Math or economics with Latin minor.
Scholarships accepted: Denison Founders Scholarship, $15,000 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: Academic achievement, leadership and personal merit
What student had to do: Regular application
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarships from University of Richmond, University of Rochester, Washington & Jefferson, Gettysburg College.
GPA: 4.15
SAT: 1310 (of 1600 math and critical reading)
AP/college level classes: AP government, literature, Latin: Vergil, statistics, physics and College in High School Calculus AB.
Activities: Field hockey, basketball, tennis, coached middle school lacrosse, student government treasurer and vice president, volunteer for Relay for Life and Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Advice: "Just apply. You should interview with the admissions counselors as early as possible. ...They get to know your personality, and they'll put a face to the name. They have good advice. With Denison, I had a very good interview. ...Keep your grades up."
Rebecca Novak, 18, of Polish Hill
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Rebecca Novak |
College: Drexel University
Major: Chemical engineering
Scholarships accepted: NORESCO Scholarship, one-time $4,000, one of four awarded citywide. Next year will be the last of three years that NORESCO offers the scholarship.
Basis of award: Pittsburgh high school student with an unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher and an interest in pursuing a career related to energy management.
What student had to do: Application, essay, recommendation.
GPA: 3.8
SAT: 1120
AP classes: None
Activities: Soccer, swimming, softball, mock trial, National Honor Society, High Tech Honor Society, volunteer at the Boys & Girls Club in Lawrenceville.
Advice: "My advice for scholarships is to start early and apply everywhere. Get started early because deadlines start in September."
Dang Tran, 18, of Lawrenceville
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Dang Tran Click photo for larger image. |
College: Duquesne University
Major: Occupational therapy
Scholarships accepted: Duquesne's Laval Scholarship, $6,500 a year, renewable, Duquesne's Provost Scholarship, $3,500 a year, renewable
Basis of award: Academic achievement, including grade point average above 3.0.
What student had to do: Regular application process
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarship to Carlow University
GPA: 3.5
SAT: 980 (math and critical reading)
Activities: Cross country, tennis, Interact Club, Youth and Government Club, one year each; president of International Club.
Advice: "I tried to sign up for many scholarships, but they really didn't do much. Do well during your four years in high school, especially 11th grade.
Kana Hatakeyama, 18, of Squirrel Hill
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Kana Hatakeyama Click photo for larger image. |
College: Duke University
Major: International comparative studies or cultural anthropology
Scholarships accepted: National Merit Scholarship Corporate award, $2,500
Basis of award: Score on PSAT, essay, recommendations, grades, activities
What student had to do to get it: Take the PSAT, write an essay, fill out the application form, get recommendations
Scholarships turned down: Full tuition scholarship at Emory University
GPA: 4.0
SAT: 1570 (of 1600 on old SAT)
AP classes: English, French, European history, statistics and physics. Also took classes in the Centers for Advanced Studies from freshman year.
Activities: School musical, chorus, tennis team, math team, Key Club, National Honor Society, volunteer at Ten Thousand Villages, attended Pittsburgh Japanese School and performing arts classes at Point Park University
Advice: "Most students don't take advantage of various opportunities to win scholarships, so be proactive in seeking them out and apply!"
Jeff Lackey, 18, Murrysville
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Jeff Lackey Click photo for larger image. |
College: Florida State University
Major: Business management
Scholarships accepted: Naval ROTC. Full tuition, $16,438 a year ; book allowance, $250 to $450 a month spending allowance.
Basis of award: Competitively awarded. After graduation, must complete four years of active duty in the Navy or Marine Corps.
What student had to do: Application with four essays and transcript, interview.
GPA: 3.96
SAT: 1170 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Chemistry, calculus AB
Activities: Cross country, swimming, track.
Advice: "There's a lot of scholarships out there. Find one that fits you and you can run with."
Danielle Martin, 18, of Coraopolis
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Danielle Martin Click photo for larger image. |
College: Gannon University
Major: Physician assistant
Scholarships accepted: Gannon Academic Excellence Award, $7,500 a year, renewable; Gannon Leadership Award for $1,500 a year, renewable; Wolves Club Scholarship from Coraopolis den for $1,000 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: Excellence based on academic merit, SAT or ACT scores, and class rank; leadership based on participation in "extensive extracurricular activities, grade point average, and class rank."
What student had to do: Gannon awards based on regular college application. Wolves scholarship required application, essay and interview.
GPA: 4.6488 (valedictorian)
SAT: 1100 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Two AP English classes, AP statistics, dual enrollment in Community College of Allegheny County sociology class.
Activities: Marching and concert band, flute ensemble, school newspaper staff, volleyball, National Honor Society, Bio-Chem Club, Spanish Club, homecoming court, prom committee.
Advice: "I think mainly making sure you do well in school and having activities helps a lot, not too many activities because it will look like you're just trying to do as many as you can but a couple of good activities you've been involved in a long time. They help out a lot."
Grace Ann Turke, 18, of Shaler
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Grace Ann Turke Click photo for larger image. |
College: Georgetown University
Major: International relations
Scholarships accepted: Westinghouse Family Scholarship, total of $12,000; Georgetown Scholarship Program, $3,000 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: Daughter of Westinghouse employee, competitively awarded; Georgetown award funded by alumni to attract top students to Georgetown.
What student had to do: Complete separate application for Westinghouse award; regular application for Georgetown.
Other Scholarships accepted: Won four scholarships offered to Shaler Area students by separate applications, which generally required essays: Shaler Area parent-teacher group , one-time $500; Shaler Area Band Parents Association, one-time $500; Shaler Area Musical Parents Association, one-time $500; Shiva Kumar Memorial Scholarship, one-time $500.
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarships to University of Chicago and American University.
GPA: 4.57398
SAT: 1460 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP/college level classes: AP European history, U.S. history, economics, chemistry, physics, English, calculus AB and calculus BC; took Chatham College class on introduction to interior architecture.
Activities: Westinghouse Science Honors Institute, Japanese National Honor Society, National Honor Society, school musical orchestra, silk line of marching band, photography and international affairs apprenticeships with Allegheny Intermediate Unit, on 13th-place National Japan Bowl, played flute at Christmas concerts for veterans hospitals, participated in summer critical and analytical reasoning enrichment program at the University of Pittsburgh.
Advice: "I would say just to apply to anyone you even think you have the remotest chance of getting."
Krista Bland, 18, of Oakmont
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Krista Bland Click photo for larger image. |
College: John Carroll University
Major: Business
Scholarships accepted: John Carroll President's Honor Award, $10,000 a year, renewable; American Values Scholarship, $2,000 a year, renewable; Sanofi-Aventis Scholarship, $2,500 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: President's Honor Award for applicants with 3.5 (B+) average in high school and strong SAT or ACT scores, usually ranges from $1,000 to $10,000 a year. American Values Scholarship for applicants who have held leadership positions in extracurricular or volunteer service organizations. Sanofi-Aventis Scholarship through mother's employment.
What student had to do: Honor award part of regular college application process; values award required detailed resume; Sanofi-Aventis separate application.
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarships to American University, Dickinson College and the University of Pittsburgh.
GPA: 4.0
SAT: 1420 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP/college level classes: AP English literature, U.S. history, biology and world history; College in High School calculus (Pitt)
Activities: Marching and concert band, Key Club, French Club vice president, Web design and international affairs apprenticeships, National Honor Society, second place in regional National History Day competition, Hometown High-Q Quiz Bowl, Academic World Quest competition, track, volleyball, cross-country, part-time employment.
Advice: "SATs are, for most colleges, a determining factor in receiving a scholarship. However, not all colleges weight them as highly as others. Two consistent factors for colleges, though, are your grades and the depth of your interests. Pursue your interests; do something with them. Colleges like to see involvement, but more importantly, passion."
Arline Hamlin, 18, of the North Side
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Arline Hamlin Click photo for larger image. |
College: La Roche College
Major: Nursing
Scholarships accepted: La Roche academic scholarship, $6,000 a year; Make-Wish-Foundation scholarship, one-time $300.
Basis of award: Regular admission process for LaRoche award; special application for other scholarship
GPA: 3.75
SAT: 1190 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
Activities: Yearbook, newspaper, literary magazine, choir, freshman orientation, Children's Hospital volunteer, after-school program volunteer.
Advice: "Try to keep your grades up. Get involved in a lot of things. Even hospitals have scholarships. ...You have to search for scholarships.
"A lot of people doubt themselves for applying for scholarships. Apply for any scholarship you meet the requirements to ...Sometimes if you have the majority of the requirements, they might consider you."
Diana Jordan, 18, of Squirrel Hill
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Diana Jordan Click photo for larger image. |
College: Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis.
Major: Music (piano and flute)
Scholarships accepted: Conservatory Scholarship, $10,000 a year, renewable; also $1,000 a year, renewable, for being National Merit commended scholar
Basis of award: Conservatory award based on strength of audition
What student had to do: Audition for conservatory scholarship
Other scholarship accepted: Pittsburgh Piano Teachers Association, $850 a year, renewable.
Scholarships turned down: Full tuition to Boston University; partial awards to Penn State, Dickinson College and Skidmore College.
GPA: 3.89
SAT: 1420 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Calculus AB, English literature, music theory, Latin literature and Latin: Vergil, French.
Activities: Three Rivers Young People's Orchestra, City Music Center Chamber Orchestra, won grand prize winner in Westmoreland Symphony Young Artists Competition playing piano in 2004, other piano and flute competitions, Cum Laude, tennis team, swim teams, occasionally served meals at homeless shelter
Advice: "Grades definitely. That helped a lot. I think the music really helped regardless of whether it was a music scholarship or not. With one thing you focus on, it shows you have a really deep interest for something. It shows you're going to bring something to college they might want there."
Lucas Goldbach, 18, of Moon
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Lucas Goldbach Click photo for larger image. |
College: Miami University in Oxford, Ohio
Major: Architecture
Scholarships accepted: Miami's Oxford Scholars, $6,500 a year, renewable; Miami's President's Scholarship, $1,000 a year, renewable
Basis of award: Miami's based primarily strength of academics, community involvement and demonstrated interest.
What student had to do: Regular admission application for Miami.
Other scholarships: JCI Senate Scholarship, one-time $500; James Alexander Scholarship, offered through high school, one-time $1,000; Central Blood Bank, one-time $250
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarship from Kent State University.
GPA: 3.86
SAT: 1300 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
College-level classes: College in High School statistics.
Activities: Three varsity sports (cross country, diving, volleyball); president and vice president of Student Council; treasurer, National Honor Society; Key Club; youth group at St. Margaret Mary Church in Moon; member of America's Promise; volunteer with literacy and senior citizens in Pittsburgh Cares, Boy Scout; part-time lifeguard.
Advice: "I applied for a lot of scholarships. I was told I should continue applying even through the summer and when I'm a freshman in the fall. I'm eligible for scholarships when in college as well."
Victoria McCoy, 17, of Marshall
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Victoria McCoy Click photo for larger image. |
College: Michigan State University
Major: Paleobiology and math
Scholarships accepted: Michigan State University Distinguished Scholarship, full tuition, room and board, $1,000 spending money a year, renewable for four years, value of about $27,000 a year; also, professorial assistantship for faculty-mentored scholarly activity, $2,000, renewable for two years; study abroad scholarship worth $3,000 to $5,000.
Basis of award: Academic record and accomplishments
What student had to do: Regular application, telephone interview.
GPA: 4.3
SAT: 1580 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
College classes: Took school district's calculus class in eighth grade; took four math courses at University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University during high school, including multivariable calculus, introduction to theoretical math, principles of real analysis and algebraic structures. Also took AP biology, physics B, physics C, statistics, U.S. history and two English courses.
Activities: Founded book club at school, forensics, recreational softball and tennis, National Honor Society, tutoring
Advice: "Pick one thing and get really good at it. Really stand out in something, whether it's community service, artistic accomplishments or academic achievement or even sports. Anything you love to do or are really good at, go for it."
Margot Crouch, 17, of Pleasant Hills
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Margot Crouch |
College: Michigan State University
Major: International relations
Scholarships accepted: Two from Michigan State, University Scholars Award $4,000 a year, renewable, Presidential Study Abroad Scholarship, valued at $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the program.
Basis of award: Scholars award for "academically talented" out-of-state students, ranges from $2,000 to $6,000 a year. Study abroad scholarship for "academically talented" students outside Michigan for a study abroad program sponsored by MSU.
What student had to do: Regular application process.
GPA: 3.8
SAT: 1150 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Two English classes, physics, U.S. history, European history
Activities: Strings program, played the fiddler in "Fiddler on the Roof," International Thespian Society, National Honor Society, French Club, Pittsburgh Project volunteer.
Advice: "Just work hard all through high school, even your senior year when you start to get senioritis. Remember to have fun, but you need to keep up the work ethic throughout the year and don't slack. Extracurricular activities are important, too, but you have to focus on your studies."
Mara Weaver, 18, of Whitehall
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Mara Weaver Click photo for larger image. |
College: Mt. Aloysius College in Cresson.
Scholarship accepted: Mt. Aloysius academic scholarship, $3,000 a year, renewable; college grant, $3,000 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: Merit. One of about 400 merit-based awards college offers, ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 a year.
What student had to do: Regular application process.
SAT: 1090 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
GPA: 3.4
AP classes: Latin
Activities: Worked part-time at Panera.
Major field: Criminology with forensic accounting
Advice: "Just work hard on your grades basically."
Brittany Micholas, 19, of Verona
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Brittany Micholas Click photo for larger image. |
School: Newport Business Institute
Major: Business management (two-year program)
Scholarships accepted: Academic scholarship from the institute, covering one-third of tuition. An additional $1,000 scholarship from the institute.
Basis of award: Merit
What student had to do: Application, including essay, recommendations, list of activities
GPA: 88.4 percent
SAT: 940 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
Activities: Marching and concert band, drama club, sound director for high school musical, Key Club.
Advice: "Something you think didn't really matter could matter in the long run. I used to say I'll never get any. In your eyes, you're never good enough. My mom sat me down and said, 'You did a lot.' ...
"Don't always be so hard on yourself. Highlight your best qualities. I remember my English teacher saying that."
Kristin Federline, 19, of Oakmont
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Kristin Federline Click photo for larger image. |
College: Northeastern University in Boston
Major: International business
Scholarships accepted: Deans' Scholarship from Northeastern, $16,000 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: Top 25 percent of freshman applicants, are considered for Deans' Scholarships, which range from $5,000 to $16,000 a year.
What student had to do: Regular admission application
Scholarships turned down: Full tuition at Emanuel College in Boston and Clarion University of Pennsylvania
GPA: Average of 93 percent
SAT: 1390 (of 1600 old SAT)
AP classes: English, U.S. history, biology
Activities: Amnesty International, French Club, cheerleader, National Honor Society, Key Club
Advice: "Just take the hardest classes that you can handle. Don't just settle for the easier ones."
Jaineil Mattox, 17, of the Hill District
High school: Schenley
College: Penn State, McKeesport
Major: Psychology
Scholarships accepted: National Slovak Society, $1,600 over four years.
Basis of award: Must be member of National Slovak Society, have life insurance or annuity in force.
How you heard about it: Grandparents started a policy. Received a letter from the company.
What student had to do to get it: Write an essay, send transcripts, scores, picture
GPA: 2.4
SAT: 1140
Activities: Youth and government club.
Advice: "Just do the research because there are a lot of scholarships out there for a lot of different people."
Ron Kohler, 18, of Verona
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Ron Kohler Click photo for larger image. |
College: Penn State, New Kensington
Major: Accounting
Scholarships accepted: Penn State Blue and White Scholarship, $1,500, renewable; Verona Chamber of Commerce scholarship in honor of Charles McKinley, one-time $1,000; Oakmont-Verona Rotary, one-time $500; South Hills High School (a now-closed city school of which his grandfather is a graduate), one-time $1,000.
What student had to do: Penn State award through admission application; others required special application
GPA: 3.6
SAT: 1120 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: English
Activities: Golf team, Key Club, National Honor Society, Drama Club, Spanish Club, library aide.
Advice: "Just be involved in your school and keep good grades and just look anywhere you can for scholarships."
Mike Rosfeld, 18, of Oakmont
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Mike Rosfeld Click photo for larger image. |
College: Penn State, New Kensington
Major: Crime, justice, law
Scholarships accepted: Ralph W. Young Family Foundation Scholarship, $8,000 a year, renewable; Penn State Chancellor's Award, $1,500, renewable, and Penn State Blue and White Scholarship, $1,000 a year, renewable.
Basis for award: Academic scholarships
What student had to do: Young scholarship through special application, including essay and interview. Penn State awards from regular college application.
GPA: 89 percent
SAT: 1100 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: U.S. history, calculus
Activities: Civil Air Patrol, football team, ski club
Advice: "Play a sport. They like that."
Roseann Budday, 18, Jefferson Hills
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Roseann Budday |
College: Point Park University
Major field: Intelligence and national security
Scholarships accepted: Point Park Presidential Scholarship, $10,000 a year, renewable over four years; departmental scholarship, $2,500 per year, renewable
Basis of award: Presidential is Point Park's most prestigious, must have at least 3.5 GPA and quality for both academic and community service and leadership awards; departmental award through her major.
What student had to do to get it: Regular application process. Through that, she was nominated for presidential scholarship, which required an interview.
Scholarships turned down: Smaller scholarship at Carlow University
GPA: 3.71
SAT: 1190
Activities: Concert and marching band, ensemble in school play and musical.
Advice: "Just apply for everything and anything you possibly can. Never stop applying."
Cleveland Savage, 19, of Shadyside
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Cleveland Savage Click photo for larger image. |
College: Robert Morris University
Major: Manufacturing engineering
Scholarships accepted: Kappa Alpha Psi Scholarship, $17, 000, renewable; Golden Torch Award from National Society of Black Engineers, one-time $1,000; Robert L. Vann Scholarship, one-time $1,000; Oliver L. Johnson and William A. Lester Families Fund, one-time $500; Pittsburgh chapter of the NAACP, one-time $1,000; NEED scholarship, $1,000, renewable; Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO), one-time $700.
Basis of award: Most for academics and community service.
What student had to do: Applications, essays.
GPA: 4.2
SAT: 1920 (of 2400 in math, critical reading and writing)
AP/college level classes: AP physics, calculus BC, U.S. history, psychology, sociology and various courses in the Center for Advanced Studies.
Activities: Founded Anti-Gravity Club which focused on space; National Honor Society, History Club, tutored students in math and history, some fencing.
Advice: "If you want to look for scholarships, you're probably going to find your best chances under local scholarships or Pittsburgh and then looking under your respective ethnic group, which is where a lot of them money would come from."
Kayla Covert, 18, of Moon
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Kayla Covert Click photo for larger image. |
College: St. Francis University in Loretto
Major: Physical therapy
Scholarship accepted: Presidential Scholarship, $8,500 a year, renewable.
Basis of award: Requires minimum 3.5 GPA, 1100 SAT (math and critical reading) or ACT composite of 24.
What student had to do: Regular application process
Scholarships turned down: Full tuition to Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania; partial scholarships to Duquesne University, Cabrini College and St. Joseph's University
GPA: 3.92
SAT: 1190 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: AP government and politics; AP English; College in High School statistics and calculus.
Activities: Cheerleading, chorus, student council, track and field, school musical, Key Club and Spanish Club.
Advice: "Apply to as many as possible. You never know what you'll get and what you won't."
Joshua Antal, 19, of Delmont
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Joshua Antal Click photo for larger image. |
College: St. Vincent College
GPA: 3.2
SAT: 1100 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: AP German and English; college-level psychology and visual basic.
Activities: Volunteer at St. John the Baptist de La Salle in Delmont, including playing guitar in the church choir, directing the choir when director is absent, altar server, lecter, food bank assistance; acting and technical work on school plays
Scholarships accepted: Four from St. Vincent: academic, $7,000 a year; leadership, $2,000 a year; Wimmer Scholarship Exam enhancement, $1,000 a year; alumni grant, $1,000 a year, all renewable, totaling $11,000 a year.
Basis of award: Academics, leadership, high score on exam and knowing an alumnus.
What student had to do: Academic and leadership scholarships received through regular admissions application process; Wimmer exam was given on-campus in November; St. Vincent alumnus had to write a recommendation letter.
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarships to Duquesne and Seton Hill.
Advice: "Talk to the admissions counselors. Stay in contact with them. They'll tell you if there are scholarships, tests, opportunities, essays."
Greg Andrle, 19, of Richland
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Greg Andrle Click photo for larger image. |
College: Thiel College
GPA: 3.65
SAT: 1180 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
Advanced classes: Took various honors courses.
Activities: Basketball team captain, football, pro-life activities at St. Richard's Church in Richland.
Major: Environmental science or art
Scholarships accepted: National Association of Trade Exchanges, full tuition, room and board, renewable.
Basis of award: Available to the child of a veteran on competitive basis; father is Gulf War veteran.
What student had to do: Initially applied for a smaller American Legion scholarship, which required an essay, letters of recommendation, transcript and list of activities. American Legion forwarded the materials.
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarship to Kent State University.
Advice: "Keep your grades high and stay involved in activities. There may be something you are qualified for through special circumstances such as a parent's employer or service organization, etc. These have a lot less competition than many general scholarships."
Ankit Dhir, 18, of Marshall
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Ankit Dhir Click photo for larger image. |
College: University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Business.
Major: Business
Scholarship: Coca-Cola National Scholar (one of 50 nationwide from 55,000 initial applicants), worth $20,000 over four years.
Basis of award: Character, personal merit and commitment. Winner demonstrates leadership in school, civic and extracurricular activities, academic achievement and motivation to serve and succeed.
What student had to do: Application, and, in later rounds, more extensive applications and attend interview weekend.
Scholarships turned down: Full scholarship to University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
GPA: 4.29
SAT: 1490 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Calculus AB, calculus BC, biology, physics, two in English.
Activities: Active in student council locally, statewide, nationally and internationally. One of 35 student council members nationwide to attend international conference in Canada. The sole student representative for the Mid-Atlantic states for the executive board of the national Association of student councils. One of two from Pennsylvania to go to the U.S. Senate Youth Program sponsored by Hearst Foundation, which includes $5,000 college scholarship. One of 18 students nationwide who helped guide Freedom's Answer, a get-out-the-vote program. Worked on statewide effort to encourage civics education. Varsity tennis player, sang in school musicals, National Honor Society, Key Club.
Advice: "There's absolutely a ton of scholarships out there. You increase your chances exponentially if you apply to a scholarship that's looking for what you have. Knowing yourself is a very big part of being successful, not only in getting these scholarship applications but doing well through your college years and beyond.
"For me, the Coca-Cola Foundation gears their scholarship toward students that participate in leadership activities. That's what most of my activities involve. I didn't apply for some football scholarships because I don't play football."
Jordan Criss, 18, of West Mifflin
High school: West Mifflin Area High School
College: University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg campus
Major: Administration of justice
Major scholarships accepted: Air Force ROTC command leadership scholarship, including full tuition, monthly stipend averaging $350, book allowance.
Basis of award: Based on SAT scores, grade point, extracurricular activities.
What student had to do: Fill out an application, interview. Get chosen from 11,900 applicants for 1,680 Air Force ROTC scholarships of various sizes nationwide.
Other scholarships: Academic, $1,500 first year; high school achievement, one-time $2,000, both from Pitt Greensburg.
Scholarships turned down: ROTC scholarship at Ohio State University
GPA: 3.72
SAT: 1040 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: English, U.S. history
Activities: Football, including all-conference for the Big 7 conference; wrestling, including named to state All-Academic High School team by the Pennsylvania Wrestling Coaches Association; track; junior ROTC, National Honor Society
Advice: "No matter what, always work hard and don't ever let anybody tell you what you want. You know what you want and just go after it with everything you have."
Samantha Horvath, 18, of Elizabeth Township
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Samantha Horvath Click photo for larger image. |
College: University of Pittsburgh, Honors College
Major: Bioengineering
Scholarships accepted: University of Pittsburgh's Chancellor's Scholarship for full tuition, room, board and mandatory fees, renewable.
Basis of award: High school academic achievement, SAT or ACT results, written essays and interviews.
What student had to do: Invited to compete on basis of admission application. Additional essays, interview required.
GPA: 4.4
SAT: 1540 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: European history, chemistry, English literature.
Activities: Volunteer teen docent at Carnegie Museum of Natural History, earned four medals in Science Olympiads, apprenticeships in anthropology and reproductive genetics with the Allegheny Intermediate Unit, student government member, school choir and honors choir, National Honor Society, library aide.
Advice: "Apply early and to as many things as you think you might possibly be applicable for. The best scholarships usually come from the school itself. The school has a vested interest in getting the better students."
Emily Ruzich, 18, of Sewickley
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Emily Ruzich Click photo for larger image. |
College: University of Richmond
Major: Undecided
Scholarships accepted: One of 50 freshmen receiving Richmond Scholars Award, which includes full tuition, a one-time $3,000 grant to enhance an academic experience and other benefits, such as a faculty mentor. Also received a competition tuition exchange scholarship which will cover room and board.
Basis of award: Richmond Scholars demonstrate "extraordinary academic achievement, exceptional personal qualities and potential for ongoing contributions to society."
What student had to do: Potential Richmond Scholars had to apply to the university by Dec. 15. On-campus interviews for semi-finalists. Was able to compete for tuition exchange because of mother's employment.
GPA: Above 4.0
SAT: 1470 (of 1600 math and critical reading)
AP classes: Chemistry, calculus, art, macroeconomics, English, biology, U.S. history
Activities: Participated in Earthwatch in Los Alamos, N.M., where she helped chart course of asteroids as introduction to astrophysics; French club president; senior class secretary; cross country, three years; National Honor Society
Advice: "I think that, especially when you're looking at colleges in general, it's a good idea to keep in mind that if you're going to grad school, you don't always need the Ivy League. If you can go to a second-tier school with a scholarship, you'll be a bigger fish in a smaller pond.
"I kind of got lucky because I only applied to one school, and everything worked out for me."
Paul DeLuca, 18, of Indiana Township
High school: Fox Chapel Area
College: U.S. Naval Academy
Major: Chemistry
Scholarship: Tuition, room, board and expenses.
Basis of award: Admission to academy. Received by all students at service academies.
What student had to do: Regular admission application
GPA: 4.16
SAT: 1300 (of 1600 in math and critical reading)
AP classes: Government, calculus AB, calculus BC, statistics, English, physics, U.S. history
Activities: Wrestling and football teams, National Honor Society
Advice: "Get involved in a lot of activities at school, just do your best and don't give up on anything."
Lora Werkmeister, 18, of South Fayette
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Lora Werkmeister Click photo for larger image. |
College: Youngstown State University
Double Major: Food and nutrition as well as public health.
Scholarships accepted: Leslie H. Cochran University Scholars Award from Youngstown State, covers tuition, room, board meals and a book stipend, renewable over four years.
Basis of award: Minimum criteria are SAT of 1260 and upper 15 percent of high school class
What student had to do: Separate application, including essay and recommendation letters.
Other Scholarships accepted: Pittsburgh Regional Food Service Directors Scholarship, one-time $3,000; Comcast Leaders and Achievers Award, one-time $1,000; Roman A. Mayfield Scholarship from International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, $1,000 a year, renewable; Harry W. Buzzatto Memorial Community Service Scholarship from Bridgeville Rotary, one-time $500; Pennsylvania Elks State Association, Elks National Foundation Allocated Scholarship Award, one-time $1,200; South Fayette School District Honors Scholarship, $250 a year, renewable.
What student had to do: Essays and, in the case of the Elks scholarship, a portfolio.
Scholarships turned down: Partial scholarships to Seton Hill, Mercyhurst and Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
GPA: 4.6 (valedictorian)
SAT: 1380
AP classes: Two English classes, biology, microeconomics, macroeconomics, U.S. history, AP calculus AB (AP and Pitt College in High School combined) and AP calculus BC.
Activities: Class council president, student government, vice president of National Honor Society, marching and concert band, dancer in musicals, powder puff football, "circle of friends" for physically and disabled students, Japanese Club, peer tutor, wellness committee, volunteer with Pittsburgh Blind and Rehabilitation Services, West Allegheny food pantry and thrift shop and activities at St. Columbkille Church in Imperial, including working fish fries and spaghetti dinners, Relay for Life team captain for American Cancer Society, helped with promotions for Pittsburgh Symphony side-by-side concert, homecoming committee, created class fund-raiser, fourth place in state in Poetry Out Loud recitation competition, National Student Leadership Conference.
Advice: "Really get involved in high school. Try to do a lot of different activities, but concentrate on the ones you really enjoy. Volunteering is a great experience and a good way to learn about yourself."
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