Ascentra Credit Union, headquartered in downtown Bettendorf, announced that next year it will award $15,000 in scholarships to 15 Ascentra student members to offset their costs of pursuing higher education.
The Ascentra Scholarship Program will award $1,000 each to students pursuing post-secondary education. The scholarships include:
- Five $1,000 scholarships for high school student members planning to enter college.
- Five $1,000 scholarships for non-traditional student members (age 19 and older) planning to attend higher education.
- Five $1,000 scholarships to members entering vocational school or college in a trade program.
Students can easily apply by visiting ascentra.org/scholarships. In addition, Ascentra partners with several great local organizations that offer scholarships as well. Some of those partners are included on the website for applicants to find additional opportunities.
Traditional and non-traditional students will be judged on their essay, resume, awards, extracurricular activities, volunteer services and work experience. This year’s 500-word essay question is, “As you prepare for the 2024 school year, how can you avoid excessive student loan debt and make informed decisions about borrowing for your education?”
Entrants for the vocational or trades scholarship will need to submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or advisor, and answer this question (in less than 75 words) “Why did you choose your specific vocational/trades program and what are your career goals in this field?”
“Ascentra is focused on providing financial education, resources and opportunities for young members wanting to continue their education,” Linda Andry, Ascentra Credit Union’s president and CEO, said in a news release.
“With the rising cost of education, it’s important that students consider the financial impact that their career and financial choices will have on the next stage of their lives. This scholarship program is a first step in assisting with those decisions.”
Under the Ascentra Scholarship Program, students may apply every year they are enrolled in an accredited institution of higher learning and/or trade, even if they are previous recipients. For official rules and to apply, visit ascentra.org/scholarships. All entries must be submitted by the end of the day on Sunday, March 31, 2024.
