Sparta, Mich.-based ChoiceOne Bank is accepting applications for its annual scholarship program for graduating high school seniors who are pursuing higher education.
The $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to a dozen students from communities the bank serves in west and southeastern Michigan. Recipients must plan to attend an accredited Michigan college in the fall of 2024 to obtain either a certificate, associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Eligible candidates must be either a graduating high school senior, a GED recipient, or a homeschool student with documentation of high school equivalency and college eligibility in the calendar year. Candidates are selected from ChoiceOne Bank communities including Kent, Ottawa, Newaygo, Muskegon, St. Clair, Lapeer, Oakland, Macomb and Genesee counties.
Students must pen an essay on what community service means to them personally. In 500 words or less, they were asked to describe one of their community service experiences, why they became involved, who benefited, and what personal accomplishments they had from helping in their community.
Families of ChoiceOne Bank employees are also eligible to apply. One student will be selected to win $1,000. The bank will reportedly pay the scholarships directly to the student’s college of choice.
Applications will be accepted through March 25.
“As the local community bank, we are committed to helping our communities thrive and that includes providing opportunities for the young adults in our communities,” said ChoiceOne Bank President Michael Burke, Jr. “Our high school seniors are the next generation of leaders, and we believe it’s important for them to realize the benefits of being raised and educated in a caring and supportive local community. In the end, it is always our hope that our students return to their roots to raise their families and advance their careers in our communities.”