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All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN
FUTURESNW BLOG
Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.
All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN
Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.
All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN
It’s with great pride that I introduce to you our 4 newest team members! Sandra, Madi, Kallie and Sebastian all bring great strengths to our team and we can’t wait for you to learn more about them.
“Hi everyone! I am a senior at Western Washington University majoring in Human Services and minoring in Education and Social Justice. I am a first-generation student and had an overwhelming time trying to navigate Western when I first started. I am extremely thankful that I had a supportive family and friend group who supported me along my journey. As a result, I see myself reflected in the students that we serve. The work that Futures NW is doing is especially inspiring because I know that it benefits countless students. I am excited to be a part of the team and look forward to growing professionally and personally throughout this process!”
“Hello! My name is Madi Whittaker and I am a 3rd-year student at WWU. I am majoring in Human Services and minoring in Education and Social Justice. When I’m not in school I am dancing, crocheting, and listening to music. I am a huge advocate for using financial aid, which is what first sparked my interest in Futures NW after Ashley DeLatour presented in one of my classes. I grew up with a single mother so financial aid and scholarships have made it possible for me to pursue higher education. I am so grateful to be interning with Futures NW because the work we are doing has a positive impact on local youth. Having the opportunity to work with students and provide them with resources that will help them be successful in life aligns with my passion for social justice. I am so excited to learn more from my team members at Futures NW as well as the students we serve!”
“Hi I’m Sebastian
My road to college has not been the best, at first I thought I didn’t need college, but after seeing what a college education can do for a career as a voice actor I have decided to pursue it. Since then, I have been moving smoothly to my college future with plans to attend WCC. I have a big passion for the culinary arts and love teaching it too. As a first-gen college student, I can’t wait to move forward in my passions.”
“Hi! My name is Kallie Karlsvik and I am a first generation Native American student. I am enrolled in the Quinault Indian Nation and am majoring in human services at Western Washington University. When I am not doing school work, you can find me fishing or doing anything outside with my dogs. In high school, I was actively involved in the big brothers, big sisters program and volunteered at a local daycare. I have always had a drive to help others and show anyone that they can do whatever they put their minds to. That’s what ultimately drove me to intern at Futures NW. I am excited to further my education and get more experience working in a high school setting and showing students they can accomplish their dreams, one step at a time.
”
Hello everyone!
What an incredible evening and show of support from our community last night. Below you will find upcoming events, opportunities and information from WSAC as well as our local colleges.
A huge shout out to the Skagit STEM Network, United Way of Whatcom County, and the Whatcom Community Foundation for your continued financial support, as well as the Washington Student Achievement Council and our local college partners (Skagit Valley College, Western Washington University, Bellingham Technical College, Northwest Indian College, Whatcom Community College) who volunteered and supported Financial Aid completions, information sharing and virtual high fives for our families navigating post-secondary education. Also to our high school partners and FuturesNW teammates- you made everyone feel welcome and supported and we are so grateful for the time you took out of your busy schedules to cheer our families on.
College Bound Focused Statewide Financial Aid Completion Event
April, 21, 2021
5:30-7:30pm
Statewide Financial Aid Q&A
April 28, 2021
9:30-10:30am
Financial Aid Completion Event
April 28, 2021
5:30-7:30pm
5-13 & 14- Vine Deloria Symposium
NWIC will be offering a 50% tuition waiver for Fall Quarter
Native Education Connections- Facebook Group for Scholarships
Shoshaunee Perez
Cell: 360-926-1718
Whatcom VIEW- https://www.whatcom.edu/get-started/campus-visits-engagements/whatcom-v-i-e-w-virtual-interactive-experience-week
Carmen Green
cgreen@whatcom.edu
Info Sessions: https://www.btc.edu/FutureStudents/ExploreYourPathway.html#InfoSessions
BTC Foundation Scholarship (Opens 4/15, Closes 6/30)- https://www.btc.edu/AboutBTC/BTCFoundation/Scholarships.html
Opportunity Grant- https://www.btc.edu/CurrentStudents/FinancialResources/WorkForceFunding.html
Alisen Outlaw
360-752-8387
Bre Olason
www.btc.edu/admissionsappointment
Admitted Student Recordings: https://admissions.wwu.edu/even/asd-virtual
Summer Preview Day (11th grade students)- https://admissions.wwu.edu/visit/virtual-summer-preview-day
Tina Castillo
360-650-7946
Skagit Valley College is offering a Fire Scholarship for those entering our Fire Protection Technology program who qualify as first-year students beginning Fall Quarter, 2021.
o The scholarship deadline is Friday, May 14, 2021
o Here is the link to apply for this scholarship: Fire Sciences - Skagit Valley College
We are providing virtual events covering Running Start and General College Information Sessions, visit: www.skagit.edu/events
Peter Schlegel
Cell: 360-899-0555
Schedule a phone one-on-one appointment: www.calendly.com/peter-schlegel
SVC student services team use our Uchat: www.skagit.edu/uchat
As always you can get one-on-one support from our teammates weekly on Tuesdays from 4-5:00pm.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qfuioqTgoGtT48lUfp_q5XfWKZ0BgjTQK
Scholarship information can be found here too!
Keep those doors of opportunity funded and open for this Fall. We are cheering you on and look forward to supporting your beautiful career and college dreams.
Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.
Scholarship
Brief Description
Due
2021 #PlanYourPathWA Student Video Contest
From ReadyWA. What are your education and career dreams, and how are you going to get there?
4/28
For students with disabilities, who have demonstrated outstanding merit in giving back to the community and overcoming obstacles to pursue higher education.
4/15
All About Education Scholarship
In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "How will a $3,000 scholarship for education make a difference in your life?"
4/30
Complete the application form including a 140-character message about e-waste. The top 10 applications will be selected as finalists. The finalists will be asked to write a full length 500- to 1,000-word essay about e-waste.
4/30
Washington Association of County Officials
Applicants must submit two (signed) letters of recommendation, a personal statement discussing your academic goals and expectations, a list of your school and community activities/involvement (include dates), a list of honors and awards (include dates), and a sealed transcript from the high school or college you are currently attending.
4/30
CCD Law Spokane Community Scholarship
For HS seniors who reside in WA, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and will be attending college in the fall.
5/1
Wells Fargo Scholarship for Undergraduates
For Undergraduate American Indian and Alaska Native Students. Funds full-time and degree-seeking college freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors who hold a current GPA of 2.7 or higher with up to $5,000 for one year of study in any chosen major at any US accredited institution.
5/1
Applicants must be of Hispanic origin and/or must significantly demonstrate leadership or service within the Hispanic community.
5/28
For students experiencing homelessness.
5/28
1-800-Wheelchair Scholarship Fund
Please submit a 'visual poem', in a style of your choosing, on the theme of overcoming a personal challenge.
5/30
UW Young Executives of Color Program
Nine-month college pipeline program hosted by UW.
5/31
American Indian College Fund Full Circle Scholarship
Scholarships available to students attending non-tribal colleges.
5/31
In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "May is the fifth month of the year. Write a letter to the number five explaining why five is important. Be serious or be funny. Either way, here's a high five to you for being original."
5/31
SEA-MAR - Farm Worker Scholarship
For students who work or have worked OR, whose parent/legal guardian is or has worked as a farm worker.
6/1
Wilson-Hooper Veterinary Medicine Assistance Program
For native students pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or Veterinary Technology (Associates of Applied Science Degree).
6/1
Navigate Your Future Scholarship
For HS graduates continuing his or her education in the aviation industry.
6/25
In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "If you could get one 'do-over' in life, what would it be and why?"
6/30
Scholarship Poetry Contest - Fall Issue
Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less. Up to $500.
6/30
Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.
All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN
Click the link for our most recent newsletter!
Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.
Scholarship
Brief Description
Due
Actuarial Diversity Scholarship
For those intent on pursuing a career in the actuarial profession. Must have at least 1 birth parent who is a member of one of the following minority groups: Black/African American, Hispanic, Native North American, Pacific Islander. For HS seniors w/ a min. 3.0 GPA & a min. ACT math score of 28 or SAT math score of 600. $1,000.
4/15
CJ Pony Parts Scholarship Video Contest
Create a short video, under 3 minutes long, on a given topic.
4/15
Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes
Honoring outstanding young leaders (ages 8-18) who have focused on helping their communities and fellow beings and/or on protecting the health and sustainability.
4/15
2021 #PlanYourPathWA Student Video Contest
From ReadyWA. What are your education and career dreams, and how are you going to get there?
4/28
For students with disabilities, who have demonstrated outstanding merit in giving back to the community and overcoming obstacles to pursue higher education.
4/15
All About Education Scholarship
In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "How will a $3,000 scholarship for education make a difference in your life?"
4/30
Complete the application form including a 140-character message about e-waste. The top 10 applications will be selected as finalists. The finalists will be asked to write a full length 500- to 1,000-word essay about e-waste.
4/30
Washington Association of County Officials
Applicants must submit two (signed) letters of recommendation, a personal statement discussing your academic goals and expectations, a list of your school and community activities/involvement (include dates), a list of honors and awards (include dates), and a sealed transcript from the high school or college you are currently attending.
4/30
CCD Law Spokane Community Scholarship
For HS seniors who reside in WA, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and will be attending college in the fall.
5/1
Wells Fargo Scholarship for Undergraduates
For Undergraduate American Indian and Alaska Native Students. Funds full-time and degree-seeking college freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors who hold a current GPA of 2.7 or higher with up to $5,000 for one year of study in any chosen major at any US accredited institution.
5/1
Applicants must be of Hispanic origin and/or must significantly demonstrate leadership or service within the Hispanic community.
5/28
For students experiencing homelessness.
5/28
1-800-Wheelchair Scholarship Fund
Please submit a 'visual poem', in a style of your choosing, on the theme of overcoming a personal challenge.
5/30
UW Young Executives of Color Program
Nine-month college pipeline program hosted by UW.
5/31
American Indian College Fund Full Circle Scholarship
...
Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.
All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN
Congratulations Renee! We are so proud of you and are cheering you on as you enter this next chapter in your life as a college graduate. The world needs people like you helping them out more than ever and we are grateful for your service to our community. We are excited to share your experience with other students who are considering going to or going back to college.
Q: First of all, how does it feel to have reached this huge accomplishment?
A: It has been fantastic and having graduated with a 4.0 makes me ecstatic. I never thought I would achieve this goal. I was never given the opportunity to receive an education, because of money and discrimination. I am proud of myself for not allowing negative circumstances to dictate my life and education.
Q: What advice would you give other students who are either thinking about college or in the process of completing a degree?
A: For those thinking about college I would tell them to get that degree. Do not let a fear, society or people’s negativity stop you from achieving your degree. You will never know what you can become unless you try.
Those completing their degree I would say do not give up. Always schedule self-care into your daily routine, it is just as important as homework. Communicate with professors weekly, they have to know you are serious about college. Building that relationship with professors, especially if you work, they need to know about you as a person. Do not worry about time, if you need a break take a quarter off. College can be difficult at times so be sure to make a schedule that is not stressful. For example, I remember I had to take Precalculus, and math was a difficult subject for me, my schedule consisted of, a P.E. yoga(self-care)class, math class, then an art class (self-care) and an English class. I had to have a balance of subjects for me not to be discouraged.
Q: What did you wish you would have known as you navigated higher education?
A: I wish I would have known I had dyslexia before I started college. I also wish I knew how many resources there are to help you as a student. Futures Northwest for one, because they have everything to help support students: FAFSA assistance, scholarships, different degree pathways and community assistance such as jobs, housing and food resources.
Q: How did completing your Financial Aid application help you reach your goals?
A: Financial Aid was a big reason why I was able to accomplish my educational goals. If I did not have that assistance, I would not have been able to get my degree. When I first started college, I did not know how to fill out the form in person or online. My sister had to help me with it.
Q: What will you miss the most about college?
A: While I’m happy to say goodbye to spending hours reading and doing homework, what I will miss the most is learning from my professors. The friendships I’ve made with both students and professors. Also, the resources in college are great, such as events, food assistance, career fairs and clubs.
Q: What a favorite memory you have from your time at Western?
A: My first quarter there when I was able to be on campus and Covid did not exist. I had a class with John Korsmo (great professor) that class was enlightening, and the students were very empathetic to one another. I have never met so many people that made me feel happy, a sense of community and belonging. I loved my first quarter a Western so much!
Q: What’s your next chapter looking like?
A: I will continue volunteering at Futures as long as possible. I am also looking for a job, I do not want to rush into anything, so I am taking it slowly to find something I feel good about. Then maybe further my education and go on to grad school at Western.
Thanks for sharing your wisdom, Renee’, and allowing us to celebrate with you!
Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.
Now Accepting Applications! Washington Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC). LYAC is codified in law as the official nonpartisan youth advisory body to the State Legislature. Overseen by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and Washington State Leadership Board, LYAC is composed of 22 student members from a wide variety of geographic, political, and socioeconomic backgrounds. LYAC members each serve a two-year term, during which they will be at the forefront of civic engagement and governmental progress. Must be entering 9th, 10th, or 11th grade in Fall 2021. Due Mar. 31.
2021 #PlanYourPathWA Student Video Contest. From ReadyWA. What are your education and career dreams, and how are you going to get there? Due Apr. 28.
Scholarship
Brief Description
Due
Odenza Marketing Group Scholarship
Must submit 2 small essays, one related to travel, & the other on why they deserve a scholarship. Must be 16-25, w/ 2.5 GPA or greater. US citizenship required. $500.
3/30
For those active in movements for social and economic justice. These need-based scholarships are awarded to students who can do academic work at the college or university level or are enrolled in a trade or technical program and who are active in the progressive movement.
3/31
National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Program
All scholarships awarded are based on academic excellence, community service, and leadership.
3/31
Paid, Multi-Year Summer Fellowship for Minority Student- Emma L. Bowen Foundation
Minority HS seniors & college freshmen w/ a min. 3.0 GPA & an interest in media careers (business, creative, journalism, technology, or sales) are eligible to apply. During this multi-year internship, students in the program receive an hourly wage & matching scholarship.
3/31
Scholarship Poetry Contest - Summer Issue
Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less.
3/31
American Fire Sprinkler Association Scholarship Program
Open to HS seniors. Citizenship/legal residency is required.
4/1
American Nuclear Society (ANS) Incoming Freshmen Scholarship
For graduating HS seniors who have enrolled, full-time, in college courses & are pursuing a degree in nuclear engineering or have the intent to pursue a degree in nuclear engineering.
4/1
American Foreign Service Association National HS Essay Contest
For 9-12th graders. Must submit an essay related to Foreign Service. Winner receives $2,500 a trip to Washington, D.C. to meet the Secretary of State, and full tuition for a Semester at Sea educational voyage.
4/5
National Peace Essay Contest for HS Students
Must write an essay related to their assigned topic. $1,000-$10,000.
4/5
Actuarial Diversity Scholarship
For those intent on pursuing a career in the actuarial profession. Must have at least 1 birth parent who is a member of one of the following minority groups: Black/African American, Hispanic, Native North American, Pacific Islander. For HS seniors w/ a min. 3.0 GPA & a min. ACT math score of 28 or SAT math score of 600. $1,000.
4/15
CJ Pony Parts Scholarship Video Contest
Create a short video, under 3 minutes long, on a given topic.
4/15
Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes
Honoring outstanding young leaders (ages 8-18) who have focused on helping their communities and fellow beings and/or on protecting the health and sustainability.
4/15
For students with disabilities, who have demonstrated outstanding merit in giving back to the community and overcoming obstacles to pursue higher education.
4/15
All About Education Scholarship
In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "How will a $3,000 scholarship for education make a difference in your life?"
4/30
Complete the application form including a 140-character message about e-waste. The top 10 applications will be selected as finalists. The finalists will be asked to write a full length 500- to 1,000-word essay about e-waste.
4/30
CCD Law Spokane Community Scholarship
For HS seniors who reside in WA, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and will be attending college in the fall.
5/1
Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.
All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN
Find more opportunities at: https://gearup.wa.gov/resources/scholarships and our list of scholarship search engines and databases.
Now Accepting Applications! Washington Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC). LYAC is codified in law as the official nonpartisan youth advisory body to the State Legislature. Overseen by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and Washington State Leadership Board, LYAC is composed of 22 student members from a wide variety of geographic, political, and socioeconomic backgrounds. LYAC members each serve a two-year term, during which they will be at the forefront of civic engagement and governmental progress. Must be entering 9th, 10th, or 11th grade in Fall 2021. Due Mar. 31.
Scholarship
Brief Description
Due
Odenza Marketing Group Scholarship
Must submit 2 small essays, one related to travel, & the other on why they deserve a scholarship. Must be 16-25, w/ 2.5 GPA or greater. US citizenship required. $500.
3/30
For those active in movements for social and economic justice. These need-based scholarships are awarded to students who can do academic work at the college or university level or are enrolled in a trade or technical program and who are active in the progressive movement.
3/31
National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Program
All scholarships awarded are based on academic excellence, community service, and leadership.
3/31
Paid, Multi-Year Summer Fellowship for Minority Student- Emma L. Bowen Foundation
Minority HS seniors & college freshmen w/ a min. 3.0 GPA & an interest in media careers (business, creative, journalism, technology, or sales) are eligible to apply. During this multi-year internship, students in the program receive an hourly wage & matching scholarship.
3/31
Scholarship Poetry Contest - Summer Issue
Open to all U.S. HS students. Applicant must submit an original poem with 20 lines or less.
3/31
American Fire Sprinkler Association Scholarship Program
Open to HS seniors. Citizenship/legal residency is required.
4/1
American Nuclear Society (ANS) Incoming Freshmen Scholarship
For graduating HS seniors who have enrolled, full-time, in college courses & are pursuing a degree in nuclear engineering or have the intent to pursue a degree in nuclear engineering.
4/1
American Foreign Service Association National HS Essay Contest
For 9-12th graders. Must submit an essay related to Foreign Service. Winner receives $2,500 a trip to Washington, D.C. to meet the Secretary of State, and full tuition for a Semester at Sea educational voyage.
4/5
National Peace Essay Contest for HS Students
Must write an essay related to their assigned topic. $1,000-$10,000.
4/5
Actuarial Diversity Scholarship
For those intent on pursuing a career in the actuarial profession. Must have at least 1 birth parent who is a member of one of the following minority groups: Black/African American, Hispanic, Native North American, Pacific Islander. For HS seniors w/ a min. 3.0 GPA & a min. ACT math score of 28 or SAT math score of 600. $1,000.
4/15
CJ Pony Parts Scholarship Video Contest
Create a short video, under 3 minutes long, on a given topic.
4/15
Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes
Honoring outstanding young leaders (ages 8-18) who have focused on helping their communities and fellow beings and/or on protecting the health and sustainability.
4/15
For students with disabilities, who have demonstrated outstanding merit in giving back to the community and overcoming obstacles to pursue higher education.
4/15
All About Education Scholarship
In 250 words or less submit a response to the question: "How will a $3,000 scholarship for education make a difference in your life?"
4/30
Complete the application form including a 140-character message about e-waste. The top 10 applications will be selected as finalists. The finalists will be asked to write a full-length 500- to 1,000-word essay about e-waste.
4/30
CCD Law Spokane Community Scholarship
For HS seniors who reside in WA, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and will be attending college in the fall.
5/1
Please click anywhere below to access full version and linked content.
All past newsletters can be accessed on the CRN web page at whatcomabc.org/CRN
https://www.whatcomabc.org/wp-content/uploads/CRN-Newsletter-3-19-21.pdf
Ivy is graduating this weekend with her Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Human Services and minoring in Sociology. We are so proud of the journey she has taken and the hard work she dedicated to her education. She is an inspiration and it is a joy to share some of her thoughts with you all as she brings this chapter to a close. Thanks for being such a gift to our team Ivy and we are celebrating you virtually.
Q: First of all, how does it feel to have reached this huge accomplishment?
A: As I enter the post-grad world, there are many contrasting feelings. I’ve realized that it’s okay to feel anxiousness, doubt, and excitement all at the same time. There were many periods throughout my higher education that I felt a lack of belonging or lack of confidence in my abilities as a student or professional. I am incredibly proud of myself for challenging those feelings of doubt with positive self-reflection, compassion, and gratitude. I’ve always envisioned walking at my college graduation as the moment I would feel the real sense of accomplishment, and I’ve come to accept that my real sense of accomplishment comes from reflecting on my personal, and educational journey. I now feel self-assured in my choice for higher education and eager to start my professional journey in Human Services.
Q: What advice would you give other students who are either thinking about college or in the process of completing a degree?
A: Your mental and physical health should always be your #1 priority. Creating compassionate and loving boundaries between your mental health and education is going to prepare you for a lifetime of setting boundaries in personal relationships and professional settings. This can look like self-reflection, incorporating self-care in your routine, or learning when you should say “no”.
Q: What did you wish you would have known as you navigated higher education?
A: As an alumnus of foster care, there were many times I felt isolated with my experiences. As I look back, I wish I would have made more of an effort to utilize the resources at WWU to connect with students that shared that identity. Through the Passport to College scholarship, I was invited to events to participate in social events with other foster-youth at WWU. It’s important to try and find a sense of community and belonging within higher education and connecting to other students with shared experiences is valuable to academic and emotional success.
Q: How did completing your Financial Aid application help you reach your goals?
A: Completing my financial aid application created more flexibility within my educational experience. While financial aid paid for most of my tuition, I was able to comfortably work part-time at local restaurants throughout the last 6 years to get the most out of my college experience. Luckily, when I graduated from Mt. Baker high school in 2015 (wow!), there were individuals in the community that was available to walk me through the financial aid application when I was accepted to Whatcom Community College.
Q: What will you miss the most about college?
A: While I’m happy to say goodbye to late-night studying, APA citations, and slipping on the bricks in Red Square, I will miss the small Human Services community of faculty and students. One of the hardest parts of transitioning to virtual learning was the absence of in-person group discussions, which were the largest contributor to my learning. Being able to discuss relevant social-justice-related topics with educated professors, and students with shared interests was incredibly valuable to my understanding of what it meant to be a life-long learner.
Q: What a favorite memory you have from your time at Western?
A: My favorite memory from Western is taking John Korsmo’s HSP 301 (Human Services Professionals and Personal Systems) course my first quarter at WWU. This was the first time that I felt like I was exactly where I was supposed to be in my higher education. We did presentations about our journey, and why we chose Human Services, and this allowed me to critically think about why this field is so important to me.
Q: What’s your next chapter looking like?
A: A few weeks before my last assignment was due, I started looking for an entry-level Human Services job in Seattle. After changing my resume a few times, practicing interviewing skills, and adjusting cover letters, I got a job offer from Within Reach in Seattle, WA. I’ll be moving from Bellingham to Seattle to start my job as a Coordinated Access Specialist for families in King County. I am excited to start this next stage of my life, and I am looking forward to exploring a new city, new food, and new thrift shops!
Thanks for sharing your wisdom and allowing us to celebrate with you.