With graduation approaching, OHS seniors need to start planning for their future, whether that be going into the military, the work force or college. For many, college would be their route of choice. College is well worth it for many students but it is not cheap. Thankfully, there are many scholarship opportunities available. They can be based on intended major, clubs you have been involved in throughout high school, GPA and more. The career center has sent emails containing numerous scholarships that seniors can apply for. Students can always look to find a scholarship that fits their criteria. 

Whether local or national, there is a scholarship for everyone. Locally, many businesses and citizens give away amounts ranging from $500 to $1,500. One local scholarship is the Compeer Financial Scholarship. The Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America is giving away 123 $1,500 scholarships to those who have an agricultural or rural background or planning to major in agriculture. You must have a 3.0 GPA or higher. The application is due March 15, 2022. Hometown Credit is also giving away two $1,000 and two $500 scholarships to seniors attending a two or four year college. You must be a HomeTown Federal Credit Union member for at least six months from the application deadline of April 8, 2022.

A new scholarship to OHS this year is the Mixed Roots scholarship. Ms. Holly Choon Hyang Bachman, the Mixed Roots founder, created this scholarship for students who have made an impact in their community by upholding Mixed Roots values of unity and diversity. The Mixed Roots Foundation will award two  students with $1,000 who have shown success by writing an essay that outlines their own work in education,diversity, and the community.The scholarship focuses on Mixed Roots members, but is open to all seniors who qualify. Ms. Bachman said, “ I wanted to go back to my roots of where it all started to recognize and honor students who are like me and all of the students, staff and faculty who helped form the group in its inception.” The application is due April 29, 2022 and the winners will be announced sometime in early May 2022. 

These are a few but far from all the scholarships that are available. Senior Abby Medo says,”I’m applying for scholarships because my college tuition is high and I don’t want to have as much debt after college”. To find more information, go to the OHS scholarship website. Ms. Shannon Dewitz updates this regularly. It includes national and local scholarships and other quick links to scholarships.