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Los Angeles County Air Show

Scholarships

Scholarships

Criteria and Instructions

Criteria

The Los Angeles County Air Show will be offering individual scholarships in the amount of $2,500 to graduating high school seniors planning to enroll in college/university level studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), or Aerospace, starting in the Fall 2020 semester.

Eligibility

Qualified applicants must maintain credits to graduate high school at the spring semester of 2020.

Qualified applicants must attend or be admitted to a college or university by the 2020 fall semester. Proof of registration will be required prior to the disbursement of scholarship funds to the institution.

Note: Scholarship awards are based on merit following a fair and transparent selection process. If no candidate is found with sufficient eligibility, the scholarship will remain in scholarship fund.

Requirements

Part 1: Applicant Information

Complete the information on the application form provided; only online applications will be accepted.

Applicants under the age of 18 before June 2020 must provide Parent/Guardian information and secure the Parent/Guardian’s signature on the completed application form.

Part 2: Scholastic Records

Part 3: Extracurricular Activities

Provide a list or resume detailing your involvement in extracurricular activities, volunteering or community service and work or internship experience. You may also include hobbies and interests.

Indicate your level and timeframe of involvement with each activity, including any leadership roles.

Part 4: ESSAY: Prepare an original essay responding to the following prompt:

As an LA County Air Show STEM Scholarship applicant, you have indicated your interest in pursuing a career in STEM. Describe your college and career goals. Include your STEM field of interest, explain the factors and/or experiences that have influenced these goals and specific interest. Note any STEM projects that you collaborated with others on and what you learned. Also include any additional achievements in STEM you are most proud of and why.

Part 4 Cont’d: Essay Requirements

Part 5: Recommendation Letter

The letter must be from a person who has had an impact on your life and can speak to your STEM college and career goals.

The letter of recommendation should be no longer than one page and include contact information of the individual submitting letter.

Email Application to

Deadline to submit application: 12:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2020. Applicants will be notified by: Tuesday, March 31, 2020 Applicants will be recognized at the LA County Air Show in March 2020. Check to make sure you have completed and signed your application, as well as including all relevant attachments (Parts 1 – 5).

About the LA County Air Show Scholarship Program

The Los Angeles County Air Show is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of innovators, engineers, and pilots. Since its inception, the air show has been a celebration of aviation and aerospace achievements, and our scholarship program is a natural extension of that mission. By offering financial support to graduating high school seniors pursuing STEM degrees, we aim to reduce barriers to higher education and empower students to reach their full potential.

The scholarship program was created to recognize outstanding young individuals who have demonstrated a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Each year, we award multiple $2,500 scholarships to deserving students from Los Angeles County. The program has grown steadily, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, partners, and community members who share our vision of a brighter future through education.

Past recipients have gone on to attend prestigious universities and pursue careers in aerospace, computer science, biomedical engineering, and other STEM fields. Their success stories are a testament to the impact that even a modest scholarship can have on a student's journey. We encourage all eligible students to apply and take the first step toward an exciting and rewarding career. Learn more about our 2018 Scholarship Program and 2020 Scholarship Program.

Why STEM Education Matters

STEM fields are the driving force behind innovation and economic growth. From developing life-saving medical technologies to designing next-generation aircraft, STEM professionals are at the forefront of solving the world's most pressing challenges. However, many students face financial obstacles that can prevent them from pursuing higher education in these demanding disciplines.

The LA County Air Show scholarship is designed to alleviate some of that financial burden, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than worrying about tuition costs. By investing in STEM education, we are investing in the future of our community and our nation. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in STEM occupations is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, making these skills more valuable than ever.

We believe that every student with a dream and the determination to achieve it deserves a chance to succeed. That is why we are committed to supporting the next generation of STEM leaders, one scholarship at a time.

The Selection Process: How We Choose Our Scholars

Our scholarship selection process is rigorous, fair, and transparent. Applications are reviewed by a committee of educators, industry professionals, and community leaders who evaluate candidates based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, the quality of their essay, and the strength of their recommendation letter.

Each application is scored using a standardized rubric to ensure consistency. The committee looks for students who not only excel academically but also demonstrate a genuine passion for STEM and a clear vision for their future careers. We value well-rounded individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their schools and communities.

After the initial review, finalists may be contacted for a brief interview, either in person or via video conference. This allows us to learn more about each candidate's personality, goals, and commitment to their chosen field. The final selection is made based on the overall impression and potential for success in a STEM program.

Once the recipients are chosen, they are notified by the date specified in the application instructions. Scholarship funds are disbursed directly to the recipient's college or university upon verification of enrollment, ensuring that the money is used for its intended purpose.

Tips for a Strong Application

Submitting a compelling application is key to standing out in a competitive pool. Here are some tips to help you put your best foot forward:

  • Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to gather documents, write your essay, and obtain a recommendation letter. Rushing can lead to mistakes and a less polished application.
  • Be authentic in your essay: The essay is your opportunity to share your story and passion for STEM. Be specific about your experiences and how they have shaped your goals. Avoid clichés and generic statements.
  • Choose your recommender wisely: Select someone who knows you well and can speak to your character, work ethic, and potential. Provide them with a copy of your essay and resume so they can write a more personalized letter.
  • Highlight your extracurriculars: Don't just list activities; explain the impact you made. Did you lead a project? Mentor others? Win a competition? Quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Proofread everything: Spelling and grammar errors can detract from an otherwise strong application. Ask a teacher or mentor to review your materials before submitting.

Remember, the selection committee is looking for students who are passionate, dedicated, and ready to make a difference in the world. Let your application reflect the unique individual you are.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about the scholarship program:

  • Who is eligible to apply? Any graduating high school senior who plans to enroll in a college or university STEM or aerospace program in the fall semester following graduation, and who meets the criteria outlined in the "Eligibility" section above.
  • Do I need to be a resident of Los Angeles County? Yes, applicants must be residents of Los Angeles County or attending a high school within the county. Proof of residency or enrollment may be required.
  • Can I apply if I am homeschooled? Yes, homeschooled students are welcome to apply. You will need to provide documentation of your academic progress and meet the same requirements as other applicants.
  • What if I am not sure which college I will attend? You may still apply, but you must be admitted to a college or university by the start of the fall semester and provide proof of enrollment before funds are disbursed.
  • Can the scholarship be deferred? Generally, the scholarship is intended for use in the immediate fall semester following high school graduation. However, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis for students facing extenuating circumstances. Contact us for more information.
  • How are scholarship funds disbursed? Funds are sent directly to the financial aid office of the recipient's college or university. They are typically applied to tuition and fees, but can be used for other educational expenses as determined by the institution.

If you have additional questions, please refer to the application instructions or contact us at the email provided.

Support the Scholarship Program

The LA County Air Show scholarship program relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and organizations who believe in the power of education. Your donation can help us expand the number of scholarships we offer and increase the award amounts, making an even greater impact on the lives of deserving students.

By supporting the scholarship fund, you are investing in the future of STEM innovation. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to our goal of ensuring that no talented student is left behind due to financial constraints. Together, we can inspire the next generation of pilots, engineers, scientists, and explorers. Thank you for your consideration and support.