Midland-based Members First Credit Union is offering scholarships to its members.
MFCU is currently accepting applications for $10,000 worth of scholarships. In total, 11 MFCU account-holding students will be awarded a piece of the scholarship pie.
The scholarships reflect the credit union’s desire to strengthen the community through education and financial literacy, says Mara Simanskey, Community Relations Specialist for MFCU.
And, she says, it's a natural fit.
"Members First Credit Union is dedicated to serving our communities, especially when it comes to education," Simanskey says.
"Our cooperative was formed when the Teachers Club of Midland County came together, and our first office was a junior high classroom."
In order to apply for the scholarships, students must be primary owners of good-standing MFCU accounts. The credit union also requires applicants to be attending or already graduated from an accredited high school, accepted or enrolled in an accredited institution, have two written recommendations and include their high school or college transcripts.
An essay portion must outline a student’s "goals, aspirations, college, and career plans," according to MFCU.
At least one scholarship will be set aside for a non-traditional student, which the credit union defines as a student older than the age of 24, working toward their first two- or four-year degree, and vocational, technical, culinary, or trade school.
The $10,000 in scholarships include one $2,000 scholarship, six $1,000 scholarships, and four $500 scholarships.
"We believe in the power of education and want to encourage local students to strive for academic excellence," Simanskey says.
The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. on Friday, April 19.
Visit Members First Credit Union online for complete guidelines and to apply today.
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