Ag Scholars' program scholarships available

West Hills College Coalinga is offering a new Ag Scholars program for high school students intending to study agriculture. Applications are now available for the scholarship, which awards students $3,750 per semester ($7,500 annually) for tuition, books and allowable expenses.

“California has a history of agriculture greatness,” said Dr. Carole Goldsmith, President of West Hills College Coalinga. “The future of agriculture depends heavily on science, technology and individuals who have a desire to apply new methods.  West Hills College Coalinga is committed to preserving the tradition of agriculture by providing scholarships to high school students who have demonstrated a desire to pursue a career in agriculture.”

Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed at the end of each month. Multiple awards will be granted.

There is no minimum high school GPA for the scholarship and it is not needs based. It will be awarded to students truly interested in ensuring the future of agriculture.

To apply, applicants must submit an essay or short video describing their dedication to and passion for agriculture.

Scholarship recipients will be required to maintain a 2.0 GPA, be enrolled in a minimum 15 units per semester with at least eight units taken directly through the Ag department, and must complete 32 hours per month of service hours. Service hours may include community outreach and serving as an Ag Ambassador, at FFA Field Days, in the community garden, at the Farmer’s Market, or as a mentor for students in Avenal and Mendota.

For more information, contact the Farm of the Future at 559-934-2703, email Farm Director Clint Cowden at clintcowden@whccd.edu, or visit http://tiny.cc/agscholarship.