The scholarship program at GFW Public Schools has long been a standout example of what happens when a community comes together to support its young people. The class of 2025 and their families heard from alumni Megan Jacobsen (Class of 2008) who will share her story of using the scholarship program to continue her education. Megan graciously provided the following information which has been edited slightly.
The scholarship program had a profound impact on my life during my time as a GFW student! As someone coming from a farm outside of Winthrop/Lafayette with limited financial resources, I was initially unsure if attending college was even a possibility. However, the scholarships I applied for helped me attend the University of Minnesota without the burden of student debt.
In total, I received $64,000 in scholarships, which not only covered tuition but also helped with other essential expenses like housing, food, and textbooks. These financial aids gave me the freedom to focus on my studies and career development without worrying about finances.
The most important thing to know about scholarships is that they are available to everyone, no matter your background or future career goals. Scholarships aren't just for top athletes or perfect students. I applied for over 60 scholarships, many from organizations and businesses I had no prior connection to, like Toyota, Best Buy, or Burger King. What mattered was finding my "why" and telling my unique story.
Scholarships aren't just about meeting a checklist of criteria, they're about sharing your experiences, your struggles, and how you've made a difference in your community or family. Most importantly, it’s not about being the best at everything, but about standing out in your own way and having the courage to apply.
I want to emphasize that scholarships aren't just for your first college year, they can continue to support you throughout your educational journey and even support your housing and living situation. Even when I attended college, I found there were opportunities for study abroad programs, advanced degrees, and career development that are funded by scholarships.
I was fortunate enough to receive scholarships that funded study abroad trips to China and India during my college years. These experiences changed my life in ways I never expected. Applying for scholarships has opened countless doors for me, and I truly believe they can do the same for others.
My story is a testament to the power of scholarships. They can transform lives, and I hope that students and families see how crucial it is to explore every scholarship opportunity available!