By Jeff Schlueter
Securing a scholarship might seem daunting, but at 4Cs the process is straightforward. Each year, the Cape Cod Community College Educational Foundation raises funds to make education more affordable. This year, $315,000 in scholarships are available.
But you’ll have to act fast: The deadline is Friday, March 7.
To apply, follow this link: https://ccccfoundation.org/scholarships/apply-for-scholarships/, which will lead you to the page where there are three choices of scholarships to apply for. Commencement scholarships are for students furthering their education elsewhere after completing a degree or certificate or transferring credits. Non-commencement scholarships are for new or existing students who will take classes at 4Cs this fall. Finally, Project Forward scholarships are for new or existing students who are enrolled in vocational classes and will take classes through Project Forward this fall. Near the top of the page is a link with step-by-step directions. Email foundation@capecod.edu for more information.
The foundation operates independently from the college but works closely with it to support students. Its board of directors includes five officers, eighteen additional directors, and 4Cs President John L. Cox as a non-voting ex-officio member. The foundation handles fundraising, allowing students to focus on their studies while benefiting from financial aid.
Scholarships are awarded through an anonymous selection process. Applications are reviewed by a committee of foundation board members, faculty, staff, and community volunteers.
Samantha Ricciardi, the foundation’s development coordinator, emphasizes the ease: “It’s an hour of your time to do it, and it’s about you.” The application includes three key questions: What are your educational goals? What are your career goals? How will the scholarship help you achieve them?
Scholarships are open to all students, regardless of grades.
“There are some misconceptions that students think their grades aren’t good enough,” said Judy Widger, the foundation’s finance/database administrator. “We have about 135 different scholarships, each with its own criteria — some based on where you live, what you’re studying, or even if you’re a single parent. We tell students that everyone should apply because they’ll likely be eligible for at least five to ten scholarships.
Widger highlights the financial incentive: “One hour of your time could be worth $5,000.”
Scholarship recipients will be notified in early May, but specific details remain confidential until the Evening of Excellence on May 14, which celebrates student achievements and the impact of scholarships.
