Counselor’s Corner | Winner School District

Welcome to the Counselor’s Corner! I will be posting any and all pertinent information on college rep visits, college visitation days, financial aid information, and the local scholarships being offered to seniors on this page.

Please check this page often – it will contain a great deal of information that will be good to know.

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A college admissions office wants to see more than just high test scores and grades.

How can you separate yourself from the crowd?

On Your Applications:

Grades and standardized test scores: It’s obvious, but these marks are one of the first things colleges look at.
Extracurricular Activities: Quantity doesn’t mean quality. Have you taken a leadership role in your chosen activities? What have you accomplished?
Rigorous course schedule: Schools want to see challenging courses that will help you grow academically. Don’t take classes just to pad your GPA.
Follow the rules: If an application asks you to choose one essay, don’t answer them all. Read the application directions completely before answering any questions.
Include everything: Verify all forms have been signed and that you’ve included all essays and recommendations. Double check that you haven’t left out anything important.
On-time arrival: Note when the application deadline is and send it in with plenty of time to spare. You may want to send your application via certified mail for added assurance that it arrived on time.

On Your Application Essay:

Show, Don’t tell: Don’t just list your attributes; get specific. For example, saying that you’re helpful is not as dynamic as relating your experiences with helping younger students learn how to read.
Creativity counts: Avoid clichés or standard essay topics. Try to come up with something an admissions office hasn’t seen a million times before.
No spelling errors: First, spell check your essay. Then, read it again for usage mistakes. Have a parent or guardian look it over for the spelling and grammar errors.
Personality: The application essay is your opportunity to show your prospective college what makes you you. Ask yourself whether what you’ve written is memorable, engaging and in your own voice.

In Your Interview:

Arrive early and dress the part: Know where the interview will be held ahead of time so you won’t arrive late. Dress on the conservative and understated side. If you have questions about the dress code, call the college and ask.
Identity: Admissions offices want to know you as a person. If you are discussing your accomplishments, highlight why they are meaningful for you, or what you got out of them.
Spontaneity, positivity, confidence: Sounding like you’re reading off of a cue card won’t leave them with a fond memory. It’s a good idea to rehearse, but remember that the interview should be a conversation. Be natural, sure of yourself and optimistic about your future college career.
Interest in the college: Come prepared with questions or impressions you have about the college to demonstrate your interest level. Place less emphasis on your plans after graduation and more on what you want to learn and accomplish while a college student. Follow up with a thank you note.

SETTING UP COLLEGE VISITS AND SEEING REPS:

All college visits can be scheduled with Val and a pass to see incoming reps can be given by Val or Bailey. If you would like to visit with a college representative, stop to see if they are coming soon.

Upcoming College Rep visits:

Senior College Fair – Mitchell – September 20th – ALL SENIORS ALL DAY

Lake Area Tech – October 26th @8:30

As always if you want to see a rep – stop and get a pass before they come. All reps will be set up in a room so students can visit with them.

Seniors: It will soon be scholarship season! We have a wonderfully generous community and offer a lot of local scholarships. The easiest thing to do is to look at the list of scholarships on the scholarship page, print it off, highlight the ones that you qualify for and then go to the PDF Scholarship page and fill them out. Most of them are fillable PDF’s but some are not. It is always best to type on them, so the best thing to do for the ones that are not fillable is to download them, and then open them in Adobe Acrobat DC reader, and then you can use the fill and sign option. As always, if you have questions, come in and ask Val!

Financial Aid is key to any college education, whether you are planning on paying for it yourself or applying for aid, every student should fill out their FAFSA. This is how they collect demographic and financial information to calculate the Student Aid Index and determine how much money you can receive in grants, loans, and scholarships. You must complete this YEARLY if you want aid.

FAFSA is new! Last year, it underwent a huge upgrade and it is still being worked on. It will not open up until December 1, 2024 for this year’s seniors. We will host a Financial Aid meeting to help seniors and their parents apply for aid. Look for more information to come in November.

FAFSA Instructions www.studentaid.gov
This site gives instructions on how to complete the FAFSA form, the purpose of the questions, and how to report information about unusual circumstances.

FAFSA on the Web www.fafsa.ed.gov/
This site will allow you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it online.

Great Lakes Home Page www.mygreatlakes.org
This web page contains financial aid and other information for students and parents.

US Government Page for Students www.students.gov
This site contains links directing students to: applying for student aid, completing the FAFSA online, asking questions of a financial aid advisor, finding state financial aid. In addition, it contains links to: finding the right school, preparing for college, career development, community service, military service and even registering with the Selective Service. Check it out!!!! When you are finished with this web site you must close out and go back to the Counselor’s Corner Home Page.

Student Financial Assistance www.ed.gov/studentaid
This web site contains pages about finding out about financial aid, applying for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and paying back your student loans, plus much more.

Financial Aid Information Page www.finaid.org
This web page contains an Estimated Family Contribution Estimator, a college cost projector, an educational Savings Plan Designer, scholarship information, and alottamuch more.

Financial Aid for Native American Students www.finaid.org/otheraid/natamind.phtml
This is a site that provides information about aid for Native American students

Financial Aid Glossary of Terms www.finaid.org/questions/glossary.phtml
On this site you can find the most commonly used terms and acronyms used when applying for financial aid.

Click on “PDF scholarships” to download an application
IF POSSIBLE YOU SHOULD TYPE ON ALL APPLICATIONS! IF YOU NEED HELP SEE VAL!

Seniors, scholarships are an important part of your college planning. This site will give you a list of scholarships, their qualifications, and their deadlines. USE THIS PAGE FIRST before filling out any scholarship. If you have questions, please ask me. Keep checking this page and the bulletin board outside the guidance office and in the library for information about available scholarships. Make a list of the scholarships that pertain to your field of study or that you are eligible for. Make sure that you fill all applications in completely and that you attach only what each application asks for. Most of the applications are fillable PDF’s but if they are not, download them, save them as PDF’s and open them in Adobe Reader DC. Be sure to read all instructions before returning completed applications. Some applications need to be submitted directly to the organization offering the scholarship and some may be turned in to the guidance office.

Winner High School would like parents and students to know that legitimate companies never guarantee scholarships and that financial aid help and information are available for free. For free financial aid help contact: Your high school counselor, or any college financial aid office. Please think seriously before spending any amount of money on financial aid help. This is money that could be used to help pay for college tuition, books, or living expenses. If you need help determining the legitimacy of a mailing you have received, contact your high school counselor.

CURRENT SCHOLARSHIPS:

Coca-Cola Scholars Program: The Coca-Cola Scholars Program scholarship is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to students in their final year of high school. Students are recognized for their capacity to lead and serve, as well as their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities. With the 35th class in 2023, the Foundation has provided over 6,750 Coca-Cola Scholars with more than $81 million in educational support. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship. To apply, go to https://www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org/apply/ through September 30, 2024.

The Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student: The Elks National Foundation awards 500 four-year scholarships based on academics, leadership, and financial need. National awards range from $1000 per year to $12,500 per year. These scholarships are for students pursuing a four-year degree on a full-time basis. Male and female students will compete separately. Students should choose Winner Elks Lodge #2084, Winner, SD 57580 as their sponsoring lodge. Application and additional information can be found at https://www.elks.org/scholars/scholarships/MVS.cfm The application deadline is November 12, 2024.

The Elks National Foundation Legacy Award: The Elks National Foundation awards $1.4 million in college scholarships worth $4000 each to a total of 350 children and grandchildren of Elks members. These scholarships are available for college-bound high school seniors who are children or grandchildren of dues-paying Elks. Applications are evaluated based on their commitment to the core values of the ENF. Students should choose Winner Elks Lodge #2084, Winner, SD 57580 as their sponsoring lodge. Application and additional information can be found at https://www.elks.org/scholars/scholarships/Legacy.cfm. The application deadline is February 3, 2025.

SD DAR SCHOLARSHIP FOR MILITARY DESCENDANTS: This scholarship is for any high school senior who will receive a diploma, is a resident of SD, and is the child or grandchild of a US Military Veteran. Applicant must have letters of recommendation from 3 different people, including – members of the clergy, educators, and business or civic leaders, as well as, a copy of the qualifying military member’s service record. The application deadline is December 1, 2024.

South Dakota Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors: Each year the SDAPHCC awards two scholarships in the amounts of $2000. These funds can be applied toward college or technical school tuition. Applicants must be high school seniors or college freshmen and be sponsored by an SDAPHCC member. The applications can be found on the PDF page. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.

Charles Hellman Memorial for Future Educators: This scholarship is in honor of the teachers who strongly influenced the life of Charles Hellmann and will be used to support future educators in South Dakota. A $1000 scholarship will be presented to any qualifying WHS student who is in the top half of their graduating class and is interested in becoming an educator in any area. Applications must include a copy of the official high school transcript and resume. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.

First Fidelity Bank: A minimum of two $500 scholarships will be awarded to two high school seniors for each First Fidelity community. Eligible students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and plan to attend any SD institution of higher learning. Selections will be based on academics, extracurricular involvement, and need. Scholarships will be paid at the beginning of the 2nd semester. An official transcript including an ACT score and a resume must accompany the application. The application deadline is April 15, 2025.

Harold E. Smith: A $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a Winner High School senior planning to obtain a degree from any SD institution of higher learning. Preference will be given to, but restricted to, a student showing a strong aptitude for English, drama, and/or oral interpretation. Applicant must have obtained suitable academic achievement. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.

Ray Neyens Sr. and Grace Neyens: A $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a Winner High School senior planning to obtain a degree from any SD institution of higher learning. The applicant should be respectful, of good character, strong in community activities and citizenship, and must have maintained good academic standing and earned at least a 2.5 GPA. A resume and transcript must accompany completed applications. The application deadline is April 15, 2025.

Gordon K. Horgen Memorial Science: This scholarship is meant to honor the legacy of scientific education brought to the students of WHS by Gordon Horgen during his 41 year career as an educator and mentor in the various sciences. Gordon taught at WHS from 1961-2002. He was an outstanding chemistry and physics teacher and was easily recognized wearing his trademark white lab coat. Mr. Horgen was also the first computer teacher at WHS. In 1971, Gordon was named the SD Outstanding Young Educator and in 1987 he was presented the Outstanding Physical Science Teacher Award by the SD Academy of Science. A $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a qualifying WHS student who plans to attend a school of higher education and will be pursuing a college degree in a scientific or mathematical field including anyone planning to become a science or math teacher. The scholarship will be paid to the registrar of the college or university at the beginning of the second semester of education. An official copy of the high school transcript, resume, and 2 sealed letters of recommendation from teachers, one of whom is a science or math instructor, to the counselor’s office. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.

Don and Fern Jorgensen: A $750 scholarship will be awarded to a qualifying WHS senior, who plans to attend an SD institution of higher learning, and has a cumulative GPA of 2.5. An official copy of the high school transcript, resume, and ACT score must be included with the application. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.

James & Lawrence Neyens: 2 – $1000 scholarships will be awarded to 2 Tripp County high school graduates planning on attending ANY school of higher learning. Applicants should be respectful, of good character, strong in citizenship and community activities, participate in extracurricular activities, and maintain suitable academic achievement. A resume and ACT score must accompany the application. The application deadline is April 15, 2025.

Antes Family: A $500 scholarship will be presented to a qualifying WHS senior who plans to pursue a career in agriculture. The applicant must plan to attend an SD institution of higher learning and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. The application deadline is April 1, 2024.

Winner Rotary Club & George and Jack Bailey Family: Two $500 scholarships will be presented to qualifying WHS seniors. Selection is based upon academics, extracurricular involvement, and financial need. Complete application with a copy of resume and official transcript needs to be returned in order to be considered. The application deadline is April 15, 2025.

Agtegra Scholarship: Agtegra is looking for passionate, driven, and future-oriented leaders ready to impact our growing and changing industry. To be eligible, applicants must have a 3.0 gpa, plan on attending 2 or 4 year institution in South Dakota or North Dakota, be pursuing a agricultural degree or career field after graduation and be a US citizen. The application is available on the PDF page. The application deadline is January 17, 2025.

Tripp County Water User District – Lawrence Wagner: Successful applicant will receive a $1000 scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded during the student’s first year of college, during the second semester. Applicant must be a child of a member of the Tripp County Water User District. The applicant must attend a SD post-secondary educational facility and have a grade point average of 2.8 or higher. A typed 250-500 word essay on what rural water has done for you or your community must be attached to the completed application. The application must be mailed or dropped off at TCWUD. The application deadline is March 1, 2025.

Tripp County Water User District – Martin & Mary Jorgensen: Successful applicant will receive a $1000 scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded during the student’s first year of college, during the second semester. Applicant must be a child of a member of the Tripp County Water User District. The applicant must attend a SD post-secondary educational facility and have a grade point average of 2.8 or higher. A typed 250-500 word essay on what rural water has done for you or your community must be attached to the completed application. The application must be mailed or dropped off at TCWUD. The application deadline is March 1, 2025.

Keith and Geneice Gebhart Family: One $500 scholarship will be presented to a Winner High School senior on behalf of the Gebhart family to stress the importance of continuing education. The application deadline is April 15, 2024.

Mary Still Memorial: Still will be a stranger to most of the students who are awarded this scholarship. Perhaps this short description will help you know and appreciate her. For almost 30 years, Mary had a beauty salon in the basement of her home on Main Street. At the age of 85, she was still doing hair at the Winner Regional Long Term Care Center. School and education were important to her. She liked to see people succeed in their education. For many years she was the only member of the class of 1930 that came to roll call. This scholarship is a gift from her. In July 2017 Mary died at the age of 106. She outlived all her siblings, their spouses, and her friends whose hair she had done. This gift will not only help the recipients further their education but will leave a legacy of what hard work and commitment can accomplish. A minimum of $1000 scholarship(s) will be awarded to a WHS student who plans to attend post-secondary education in any field of their choice. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.

Benson Family Memorial: This scholarship is offered by Robert and Judy Benson to a graduating senior from WHS. Both Bob and Judy have been lifelong residents of Tripp County and are graduates from WHS. Applicant must have a 4.0 nonweighted gpa, including a personal resume, and transcript. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.

Dr. Tony and Kay Berg: This permanent endowment to provide a $1000 scholarship will be awarded to a Winner High School student or an employee of Winner Regional Healthcare seeking a career or to advance their career in healthcare. The application will be assessed by need, grades, involvement, or can be given to someone already in the medical field that is trying to advance their degree. The application deadline is April 15, 2025.

Oscar and Rose Pravecek Family: The family of Oscar and Rose Pravecek have established a fund in their honor. They enjoyed a successful lifestyle in the Winner area. This scholarship is for the benefit of deserving graduating seniors from Winner High School under the following terms and conditions. Selection of students shall be based on pursuing an Ag-related field or vocation, be returning to an Ag area, or be a participating 4-H member. The recipient shall attend a post-secondary institute of their choice, with either college or vocational training. The application deadline is March 30, 2025.

DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution): DAR offers 26 scholarships for graduating seniors, and college and graduate students in specific areas of study. Applicants must be citizens of the US and attend or plan to attend an accredited college or university in the US. To apply, visit the online application portal at https://dar.academicworks.com. Scholarship applications are accepted November 1 through January 31 each year until 11:59 pm (Hawaii Time).

ESA Foundation Scholarships: ESA Foundation offers several scholarships based on different criteria. You will have to create an account and then can filter out the scholarships that are right for you and your future plans. Account can be created at https://epsilonsigmaalpha.org/scholarships. The application deadline is January 31, 2025.

Serving Others (SD Insure): The Independent Insurance Agents of South Dakota believe in being authentic. We believe in doing the right thing, regardless of the outcome. Most importantly, we believe that fulfillment comes from serving others. Our members take pride in our communities and those we insure. We are pleased to further this service by offering: 1 x $10,000 Scholarship and 4 x $2,500 Scholarships to 5 eligible South Dakota Students. Students should complete the application and drop it off at the Insurance Center to Lana Stickland. The application can be found at https://sd.insure/scholarship/. The deadline for applying is February 22, 2024.

Dakota Corp Scholarship: Qualified Applicants Must:

Graduate from an accredited South Dakota high school with a Grade Point Average (GPA of) 2.8 or greater on a 4.0 scale. Home schooled students will be allowed to provide supplemental information if this requirement is not applicable.
Have a composite ACT score of 27 or greater (or the SAT equivalent).
Agree, in writing, to stay in South Dakota and work in a critical need occupation after graduation for as many years as the scholarship was received, plus one year. The current critical need occupations for 2023-24 are:
- - Teacher – K-12
    - Special Education
    - Foreign Language
    - Vocal or Instrumental Music
    - English as a Second Language (ESL) or English Language Learners (ELL)
  - Teacher – Secondary
    - Math
    - Science
    - Career and Technical Education
    - Language Arts
  - Accountant / Auditor
  - Engineer (all fields EXCEPT mining, chemical, biomedical, and computer hardware)
  - Information Technology
  - Registered Nurse
The application site can be found at https://sdbor.scholarships.ngwebsolutions.com/. The application deadline is December 15, 2023.

Freedom Scholarship SD: This scholarship is based on financial need through FAFSA, maintaining a 2.0 GPA in college, graduating with a bachelor’s degree within 5 years, and committing to living and working in SD for at least 3 years after graduation. There is no application form to fill out, eligible students will be notified by their respective financial aid departments at your in-state school.

Rosebud Electric: This scholarship is for any student whose parent(s) or guardian are members of Rosebud Electric Cooperative and who plans on attending a post-secondary school. This scholarship requires a short essay, the completed application and a letter of recommendation by someone not in the education system. The application can be found on the pdf scholarship page and the deadline is 4:30 pm February 12, 2024. This scholarship must be mailed or dropped off.

South Dakota Engineering Society – Central Chapter: The Central Chapter of SDES offers two $1000 scholarship awards to local students. This scholarship is for any senior who may be interested in becoming an engineer and will be attending either SDSM&T or SDSU next year. The application is on the pdf page. The application deadline is April 5, 2024.

Joe Foss “An American Hero”: Available to seniors graduating from SD high schools, this scholarship is for anyone that is planning on attending an accredited college, university, or technical college. Applicant must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and a minimum ACT score of 21, as well as, demonstrating characteristics of an American patriot. The application can be found on https://www.sfacf.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships. The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Kimberly Rose Means – Native American Council of Tribes: Awarded to graduating high school seniors who are enrolled members of a South Dakota tribe or tribal members who are returning to school after an absence. Applicants must plan to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school and have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Applicant must also have participated in school and community activities and have the desire to accomplish his or her goals. The application can be found on https://www.sfacf.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships. The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Osmann Family Native American: Awarded to graduating South Dakota high school seniors who are enrolled members of a Native American tribe. Applicants must plan to attend an SD university or vocational school that is located in Sioux Falls, Watertown, Mitchell, or Rapid City and have a GPA of 2.5 or higher after 7 semesters of high school. Applicants must also have the desire and ability to succeed in further academic study and have participated in extra-curricular or community activities. The application can be found on https://www.sfacf.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Fred and Marie Christopherson: Applicants who plan to attend a four-year college or university in South Dakota, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.9 after their seventh semester, and have a minimum ACT score of 28 are eligible for this award. The application can be found on https://www.sfacf.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Emily’s Hope: Open to graduating seniors of South Dakota who plan to study art, particularly visual art. Eligible applicants must have a gpa of 3.0 or higher and be prepared to submit an example of their art work. The application can be found on https://www.sfacf.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Cogley-Buffinton Certified Property and Casualty Underwriter’s Fund: Awarded to applicants graduating from a high school in South Dakota who plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university. Applicants must also demonstrate financial need: have a 3.5 gpa or higher; participate in extra-curricular and community activities, and demonstrate an interest in and understanding of the role of business in American society. The application can be found on https://www.sfacf.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Bank West: 21 BankWest scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors and undergraduate college students that meet the following criteria: must be a BankWest deposit account holder for at least 6 months preceding the application deadline, must be a US citizen, not have previously received a BankWest scholarship, and be willing to have a personal interview on March 14 or 15, 2022. Each scholarship is valued at $1500 and may be used to fund tuition. BankWest Scholarship applications are available on the PDF page or can be found online at https ://www.bankwest-sd.bank/personal/scholarships/ . The application deadline is February 2, 2024.

Oscar and Rose Pravecek Family: The family of Oscar and Rose Pravecek have established a fund in their honor. They enjoyed a successful lifestyle in the Winner area. This scholarship is for the benefit of deserving graduating seniors from Winner High School under the following terms and conditions. Selection of students shall be based on pursuing an Ag-related field or vocation, be returning to an ag area, or be a participating 4-H member. The recipient shall attend a post-secondary institute of their choice, with either college or vocational training. The application deadline is March 30, 2024.

Norman W. Ranschau Memorial: Norman was born in 1951 and raised on a farm in Lyon County, Iowa. While in high school he was actively involved in FFA. He also loved to assist his father and brother with planting and harvesting of crops. Norman died unexpectedly in an accident on the farm at the age of 61. To remember him, and his love of agriculture, his family have started this scholarship. Applicants for this scholarship must be students who plan to pursue a degree in an agricultural-related field and who attended school or reside in Lyon County, Iowa; Sioux City, Iowa; Rock County, Minnesota; or the state of South Dakota. Applicants must be first time students with financial need who have participated in agricultural extra-curricular activities and will be pursuing an ag-related job. The application can be found on https://www.sfacf.org/grants-scholarships/scholarships The application deadline is March 15, 2022.

Yankton Medical Clinic, PC: Through the strong desire to promote higher education, and to provide resources for youth to seek higher education, Yankton Medical Clinic, P.C. will award five $1000 scholarships to area high school seniors. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and ACT composite score of 24; must be pursuing a major in a healthcare related field and essays and references are to be 800 words maximum. Applications and complete details can be found online at www.YanktonMedicalClinic.com/Scholarships. The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

Golden West Communications: This $1000 scholarship will be awarded to 1 WHS student based off of academics, extra-curricular activities, and ACT score. Parent’s must be a Golden West phone or internet subscriber. Award will be paid directly to the college or university of student’s choice after successful completion of the first semester. Applications must be completed and returned to the counselor by March 15, 2024.

WH Sturges: This is 2 – $850 scholarships for a student going into any field of medicine. Applicants for this scholarship must be a senior or an alumnus of Winner School District and be planning to go into a health-related field of study. Applicant must attend an SD Institute of Higher Education including a technical school. The applications are available by clicking on the PDF link at the top of the page. The application deadline is May 2, 2024.

SDEA/NEA Gordon Horgen Memorial: The South Dakota Education Association/NEA is calling for applications for the new Gordon Horgen Memorial Scholarship, which will be awarded to Native American students who are planning on entering the teaching profession. This scholarship was created by the 2014 Representative Assembly to honor the late Gordon Horgen from Winner. Throughout his 41 years as a science teacher, Gordon Horgen was an advocate for all students. He wanted to help them succeed at their highest potential and capability. To better understand the Native American Culture, he attended multiple workshops on the USD campus in Vermillion and attended another two-day workshop with Native American instructors and guest speakers in Mission, SD. Additionally, Gordon was always open for dialog with parents and community leaders. Gordon used these experiences to incorporate more hands-on examples and experiments into his science courses and related various complex scientific theories to things more readily observed in nature. Gordon’s advocacy was also evident in his teaching Sinte Gleska College Classes at night for over ten years in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s in his classroom at Winner High School. The Association may annually award up to four $750 scholarships for each academic year. The scholarships are open to Native American high school seniors or college sophomores who are planning on going into the teaching profession. The application can be found at https://www.sdea.org/resource-library/gordon-horgan-scholarship The application deadline is February 15, 2024.

Ramia Boersma: The South Dakota Education Association/NEA awards scholarships to outstanding students who are planning on entering the teaching profession. The association may annually award up to three $750 scholarships for each academic year. The application can be found at https://www.sdea.org/resource-library/ramia-boersma-scholarship.

St. Joseph’s Indian School Scholarship: St. Joseph’s Indian School College scholarship provides funds for the educational needs of Native American students in established institutions of higher learning. A grade point average of 2.0 is required inorder to apply and financial need is used to decide the scholarship. The application can be found at the following web address https://www.stjo.org/wpcontent/Media/Images/Page/CollegeScholarships/applications/New%20Student%20Scholarship%20Package.pdf The application deadline is August 21. 2024.

Dakota Indian Foundation: This scholarship program is established for the further educational advancement of Native American students with priority to those of Lakota, Dakota, Nakota heritage. Students must be a Sophomore, Junior or Senior to be eligible and must have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours. Scholarships are for any approved course of study at an accredited college, university or vocational school. Recipients must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA to remain eligible, and be enrolled full-time each semester. Scholarships will be limited to funding availability. The application is available on the pdf scholarship page. The application deadline is August 1, 2024.

Catching the Dream: CTD’s objective is to recognize and reward outstanding student achievement. This supplemental award is intended to help Native American Indian students who are ¼ or more degree American Indian and enrolled members of a U.S. tribe. “U.S. Tribe” is defined as federally recognized, state-recognized, or terminated. All awards are based on merit, academic achievement, and ambition. Students must attend a college or university on a fulltime basis, seeking a BA or higher. CTD does not fund students studying out of the country or attending nonaccredited institutions, vocational, technical institutions, distance learning, or online programs. Catching the Dream scholarships are awarded for life. If you win, you will never have to apply again. However, if you are not selected for a scholarship with CTD, you cannot apply again. The application can be found on the pdf page. The application deadline is April 30, 2024.

Cobell: This scholarship is for Native American seniors to help cover the costs of earning a degree of higher education. It provides elevated opportunities for high achieving, community involved Native college students with leadership experience through empowering them with an impactful scholarship experience designed to support their success in higher education. To apply go to https://cobellscholar.org

Rosebud Sioux Tribe Higher Education: This scholarship is for all tribal members planning on attending a college or university off-reservation who need financial assistance. It is a renewable application that must be applied for yearly. The application can be found on the PDF page. The application deadline is July 1, 2024.

Coaches Against Cancer: Each year the Coaches Against Cancer and the South Dakota High School Coaches Association will award scholarships to qualified and deserving high school graduates. The scholarship is intended to assist qualified graduates to further their education at an accredited institution of higher education. All applicants must be or have been a high school student-athlete of an accredited South Dakota high school who has had some type of medical issues or a family member has had some type of medical issues that may have affected them during their high school career. Each applicant must show ample evidence that he/she is capable of succeeding at the post-secondary level (transcript, GPA, rank in class, ACT or SAT scores). The scholarship winners must attend an accredited institution of high education. The application can be found on the PDF scholarship link. The application deadline is February 10, 2024.

Dave Prohl Memorial: Each year Burger King and the South Dakota High School Coaches Association will award a $1000.00 scholarship to a qualified and deserving high school graduate. The scholarship is intended to assist qualified graduates to further their education at an accredited institution of high education. To be eligible the applicant must be a high school senior student-athlete, that has shown ample evidence that he/she is capable of succeeding at the post-secondary level (transcript, GPA, rank in class, ACT or SAT scores). The scholarship winners must attend an accredited institution of high education. The application can be found on the PDF scholarship link. The application deadline is February 10, 2024.

SDHSCA Student Trainer/Manager: South Dakota High School Coaches Association will award a
$1000.00 scholarship to a qualified and deserving high school graduate who has served time as a student trainer or manager while in high school. The scholarship is intended to assist qualified graduates to further their education at an accredited institution of high education. To be eligible the applicant must be a high school senior student-athlete, that has shown ample evidence that he/she is capable of succeeding at the post-secondary level (transcript, GPA, rank in class, ACT or SAT scores). The scholarship winners must attend an accredited institution of high education. The application can be found on the PDF scholarship link. The application deadline is February 10, 2024.

South Dakota High School Coaches Association: Each year the South Dakota High School Coaches Association awards $1000.00 scholarships to qualified and deserving high school graduates. The scholarships are intended to assist qualified graduates to further their education at an accredited institution of higher education. To be eligible the applicant must be a high school senior student-athlete, that has shown ample evidence that he/she is capable of succeeding at the post-secondary level (transcript, GPA, rank in class, ACT or SAT scores). The scholarship winners must attend an accredited institution of high education. The application can be found on the PDF scholarship link. The application deadline is February 10, 2024.

Winner Music Boosters: This is a $250 scholarship will be awarded to a senior at Winner High School who has demostrated an interest in and dedication to music. The applicant must have been actively involved in the music department in Winner for at least 2 years and have a 3.0 gpa. The application deadline is March 7, 2024.

Horatio Alger Denny Sanford: Since 1984, the Horatio Alger Association has awarded college scholarships to deserving students. The Denny Sanford scholarships are awarded to high school seniors each year and range from $10,000 to $37,500. Students must pursue a Bachelor’s degree at Augustana, Black Hills State, Dakota State, SDSM&T, South Dakota State, University of Minnesota, University of Sioux Falls, or University of South Dakota. Scholarship criteria includes: Financial need, commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree, and US citizenship. The scholarship application can be found at https://horatioalger.org/scholarships. The application deadline is March 15, 2024.

GoldenWest: This $1000 scholarship will be awarded to 1 WHS student based off of academics, extra-curricular activities, and ACT score. Parent’s must be a Golden West phone or internet subscriber. Award will be paid directly to the college or university of student’s choice after successful completion of the first semester. Applications must be completed and returned to the counselor by March 15, 2024.

Janet Bruun Memorial: This $500 scholarship is in memory of Mrs. Bruun. Mrs. Bruun was a long time educator, advisor, and mentor in the Winner School District. She was passionate about community involvement, academics, extracurricular activities and also responsible for starting the Warriorette drill team in 1970. In honor of her memory, this scholarship is being awarded to a student pursuing an education major. The application is on the PDF link. The application deadline is March 18, 2024.

Pheasants Forever: These 4 scholarships will be awarded directly to the recipient for the fall semester. The applicant must be a Tripp County resident planning to attend a 2 or 4-year university or technical college. The application deadline is April 15, 2024.

Oahe Racers Association: Two $1000 scholarships will be awarded to a SD high school senior who is pursuing a degree in the automotive field and attending one of the four technical colleges in SD. The application can be found on the pdf page. The application deadline is March 31, 2024.

Cherry-Todd Electric: To be eligible, you must be a dependent of a member. Applications are available and must be submitted to Basin by February 16th. Recipients will be chosen according to criteria such as SAT/ACT scores, overall grade point averages, work experience, participation in school and community activities, a personal statement of career goals and a written recommendation by a third party. Only the applications which provide all of the above information will be considered, so it is important to read the application thoroughly and complete every detail. The applicant must be a student who is enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time graduate or undergraduate course of study at an accredited, two-year or four-year college, university or vocational/ technical school. Application can be found on the pdf page. The application deadline is February 16, 2024.

Winner VFW Auxiliary Post #4674: One $1000 scholarship will be presented to one high school senior upon registration at the school of their choice. Student must have a cumulative GPA of not less than 2.5 and be a child, grandchild, or sister/brother of a veteran. The application is located on the pdf page. The application deadline is April 4, 2024.

Critical Teaching Needs: Provides financial assistance to South Dakota high school graduates who attend an eligible higher education institution in South Dakota and promise to work in a critical teaching need occupation in South Dakota for five years after graduating from a participating postsecondary institution. Applicant must have a cumulative 2.8 GPA on a 4.0 scale. The application deadline is April 15, 2024.

South Dakota Engineering Society Central Chapter: The Central Chapter offers two $1000 scholarship awards to local students. The applicant must intend to pursue an engineering degree at either SDSU or SDSMT. The application can be found on the PDF scholarship page. The deadline is April 5, 2024.

SD Farm Bureau: South Dakota Farm Bureau is dedicated to agriculture in our state. This scholarship is to celebrate youth that have a passion for agriculture and their rural communities. We want to award scholarships to youth who are planning on returning to rural communities to work. Applicants can choose to be considered for an agriculture-focus or community-focus scholarship, depending on their major and/or experience with agriculture. To be eligible, the applicants parents or guardians must be current members and have been for 2 years. The application is on the pdf page. The application deadline is March 1, 2024.

Anne Pinter FFA: A $500 scholarship will be awarded to a qualifying high school senior who is a current member and who is entering an agricultural field of study at a school of higher education. The application is on the PDF page and the application deadline is April 15, 2024.

TC Energy: TC Energy offers 750+ scholarships across Canada, the US and Mexico. Scholarships range in value but could go up as high as $5000. There are 3 scholarship catergories: STEM, Indigenous Legacy, and Trades. To see if you qualify, go to tcenergy.com/community-giving/scholarships/US/. The application deadline is May 3, 2024.

CHS River Plains: CHS will be awarding up to 10- $1000 scholarships without their trade area. The applicants must be a high school senior from the CHS River Plains territory, and their parents/guardians must be a current eligible customer. CHS also encourages, but does not require, the applicant to be seeking an agriculture degree. The application is available on the pdf page. The application deadline is April 1, 2024.

Statewide Ag Insurance: This scholarship is for a Winner High School student that has a gpa of at least 2.0, has an agriculture background, and can write an essay of 140 words. The application must be mailed or dropped off to Statewide Ag in Winner. The application deadline is April 30th, 2024.

BUCHE Foods: In May, each of the Buche Foods stores, located in Gregory, Mission, Pine Ridge, Oacoma, Sisseton and Wagner, awards scholarships to high school seniors from their community or the surrounding communities that has overcome some seemingly insurmountable obstacles in their life and are going to attend either College, University or a Technical/Trade School. To date, Buche Foods has given away over $463,600.00 in scholarship money to area students. To apply go to www.underdogscholarship.com. The application deadline is March 1, 2024.

Winner Southern Belle Cattlewomen: Two $500 scholarships will be available to any Tripp high school graduate who plans to attend a school of higher education, in order to pursue a career in an agricultural-related field. These scholarships will be used for the spring semester following high school graduation. Applications are available on the PDF scholarship page. The application deadline is April 4, 2024.

Order of the Eastern Star/Masons: A $500 scholarship will be given to a local high school senior. A resume about yourself, including plans, activities, and any jobs you have held in the past 4 years needs to be included along with a transcript and any affiliation to the Masonic temple if applicable. The application deadline is April 1, 2024.

John Forkenbrock Educational: The John Forkenbrock scholarship was established by the Impact Schools of South Dakota. Mr. Forkenbrock dedicated years of service ensuring funding and quality educational programs for Impact Schools of South Dakota. This $500 scholarship will recognize a high school senior from a school district that is a member of the Impact Schools of South Dakota entering the education field whose plan is to be a teacher. The application must be mailed and needs to include 2 letters of recommendation. The application deadline is March 8, 2024.

Samuel K. Hoffart: This scholarship is for a high school senior attending school in South Dakota and who will be pursuing a farming or agricultural degree of some sort. It was established in honor of Sam Hoffart, a hard-working, honest, helping, and caring man who was a third-generation farmer. This is a $1000 scholarship to a high school senior looking to get a start in the agriculture field. The application is on the pdf page. The application deadline is April 23, 2024.

SDSU Extension 4-H: There are 7 different scholarships that you can apply for with this one application. The selection and requirements vary so please pay attention to what each one says. The application can be found at https://extension.sdstate.edu/sites/default/files/2024-01/MC-03267-01.pdf or on the pdf page. The application deadline is April 1st, 2024.

4-H Club Foundation of Tripp County: This application qualifies members for both the 4-H Club Foundation and the Harold and Twila Zink Scholarships. Applicant must be active 4-H member and graduating senior. The application can be found on the pdf page. The application is due August 31, 2024.

Tripp County 4-H Graduating Member: Applicants must have at least 3 years of active 4-h membership in SD and be 19 on or before January 1 of the following year. A Tripp Co 4-H member may choose to graduate early from 4-H and may apply for this scholarship the same year of high school graduation. In doing so, they forfeit any remaining eligibility they may have for 4-H participation in Tripp Co. The application can be found on the pdf page. The application is due September 1, 2024.

Town and Country Women’s Club: The applicant must be a graduating senior and have maintained a 2.5 gpa or greater. The student must have been accepted at a college or technical school as a full-time student. They should reflect academic achievement as well as community involvement. Applications are available by clicking the PDF link at the top of the page. The application deadline is April 1, 2024.

Winner Regional Foundation: Any high school senior in Winner Regional Healthcare Center’s service area (Tripp, Todd, Gregory, or Mellette Counties) planning to pursue higher education in a medical or healthcare field. Up to two (2) two-thousand and five hundred ($2,500.00) scholarships may be awarded. The application can be found on the pdf page. The application deadline is April 25, 2024.

Kristie L Storms, Ph.D Memorial: This is a $500 scholarship in memory of Kristie L Storms. Kristie started her education at Beaver Creek School, a one-room schoolhouse. She graduated from Winner High School. She attended SDSU and after graduating she continued her education at Northern State. She received her doctorate posthumously from Texas Tech in Family and Consumer Science. Preference for this scholarship will be given to applicants that are going into this field of study, but any interest in education will also be accepted. The application deadline is April 1, 2024.

ESA Beta Alpha: This scholarship is for a Winner High School senior planning to pursue a post-high school education. Applicant must have a 2.0 and complete the application fully. The applicant is reminded to only attach information asked for, nothing extra. The application deadline is April 25, 2024.

South Dakota Telecommunications Association: Three $2000 scholarships will be awarded to a high school graduate in 2024. The applicant must be attending an institution in South Dakota for the fall 2024 semester and be majoring in a degree/program that is useful in the telecommunications or broadband industry or which relies on the use of broadband services and related technologies (a list of possible majors can be found at https://sdtaonline.com/sdta_scholarships.php). The application can be found on the pdf page. The application deadline is June 14, 2024.

Pepsi-Cola of Mitchell: Pepsi-Cola of Mitchell is proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of high school seniors and college undergraduates through the Pepsi Scholarship Fund. The purpose of the Pepsi Scholarship is to reward individuals who are passionate about creating a better future by recognizing student leadership, citizenship, as well as school and community involvement. To apply go to www.wpbpepsi.com/scholarship The application deadline is April 29th, 2024.

PEO: This scholarship is open to high school girls. Preference may be given to girls whom have a family member in a PEO chapter, but it is not a requisite for the award. The application is on the PDF page. The application deadline is April 26th, 2024.

“A dream is a path to the future, A quiet belief in the heart, A small secret wish nurtured deep in a spirit…Where all great accomplishments start, A dream is an endless horizon that only a dreamer can see, A dream is a challenge…A promise of all you can be.” ~Anonymous~

SCHOLARSHIP SCAMS

A Scammer:

States you’ve won an award for which you didn’t apply.
Does not supply valid contact information.
Guarantees you will win an award.
Requires personal financial information (such as credit card numbers or checking account numbers) to “verify” or “hold” a scholarship.
A sponsor may use words like “national,” “education” or “federal” or have an official-looking seal, but might still be a scammer. Also, the federal government and the U.S. Dept. of Education do not endorse private businesses.

A legitimate scholarship service:

Sends information about awards when you request it.
Makes contact information available upon request.
Does not guarantee you will win an award.
Should not direct you to a fee-based provider because they know that financial aid information is readily available for free.

FINANCIAL AID SHOULDN’T COST YOU, ESPECIALLY WHEN FREE RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE.

TOP 10 ADMISSIONS TIPS

Take a rigorous academic course load.
Research financial aid options.
Prepare for the SAT or ACT exams.
Develop your ideal college profile.
Review application essay questions.
Do Community service and volunteer work.
Attend college fairs.
Keep your grades strong.
Maintain relationships with teachers who can write your letters of recommendation.
Explore your interests through your classes.

10 COLLEGE ESSAY TIPS

Don’t recycle essays.
Captivate your audience
Be yourself.
Accentuate the positive.
Write in the active voice.
Don’t overextend.
Ask people for input.
Leave time for rewriting.
Revise, reword.
Pursue perfection.

Counselor's Corner