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Overcoming Challenges in Higher Education
2025 NASP DETROIT 19th ANNUAL SHAFTER TERRY, III SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
Over the years, we have proudly awarded our rising NASP Detroit Scholars over $700,000 and counting! Please be assured that our commitment to making a difference for deserving students in Greater Metro Detroit remains strong and unwavering.
Our theme for this 19th year is: “Next Generation Students Overcoming Challenges in Higher Education”
APPLICANTS MUST BE:
- A resident of the Metro-Detroit area, AND
- A high school graduate entering a 2-year or 4-year institution of higher learning, a skilled trades program, a continuing education program, OR
- A student currently enrolled in a 2-year or 4-year institution of higher learning, skilled trades program, continuing education program, OR
- A graduate student currently enrolled in a graduate program.
YOU MUST ALSO SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION AS PART OF YOUR APPLICATION PACKET:
- Proof of college enrollment: Attendance or proof of college acceptance/admittance
- A copy of a recent transcript
- One (1) Letter of Recommendation:
- Letters must be from a non-relative (i.e. mentor, counselor/advisor, employer, or pastor/minister).
- Letters must include the name, address, phone number, and number of years the recommender has known the applicant.
- A Personal Essay:
Higher education institutions and students are currently facing a multitude of challenges, including declining enrollment, increasing systemic barriers, and the dismantling of funding and programs that prevent students from underrepresented groups from accessing and succeeding in higher education, all while needing to adapt to rising costs and changing student expectations. These issues are forcing institutions and students to rethink their strategies and find innovative solutions to remain relevant and sustainable:
In 500 words or less, please address the following questions: In the current environment, what is the value of higher education? What aspects should be protected? How do you think higher education will influence your perspective on the world?
SPECIAL NOTE: We are seeking thoughtful and well-researched Personal Essays. Utilizing AI resources (like Chat GPT) is a valuable tool for research; however, AI should not be used to generate most or all of the essays. Accordingly, Applicants found doing so will receive a reduced award and/or may be rejected entirely.
LINK TO THE APPLICATION
https://form.jotform.com/221596224693159
PERSONAL ESSAY RESOURCES
We invite applicants to reference the following list of relevant articles and videos in preparation for their Personal Statement submission: PERSONAL ESSAY RESOURCES
DEADLINE
The completed application is due Sunday, July 5, 2025 @11:59 pm (EST). PLEASE NOTE: Any submissions after the designated due date will NOT be considered. Failure to submit all required documentation may disqualify you from scholarship consideration.