Ashley Gray
Dorothy MacRae Hyman Memorial Scholarship
Completing a Coordinated Bachelor's Program in Dietetics at Harding University
| “Having one application for so many scholarships is an incredible opportunity for any student. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by submitting the application. With the cost of higher education constantly increasing, I am always looking for ways to help pay for my education without incurring a lot of debt. I am excited to have received one of the Foundation scholarships, which will allow me to stretch my education dollars further and make it easier and less stressful to afford my goal of earning my bachelor's and master's in nutrition and dietetics so I can become a registered dietician.” |
How did you learn about the availability of the Foundation scholarship that you received?
I learned about the availability of the Foundation scholarship through my academic advisor at Harding University. She told me about the scholarship opportunity at one of my advising sessions and sent an email with a link to the Foundation's scholarship application.
What motivated you to apply for a Foundation Scholarship?
I was motivated to apply because I am a full-time student and a full-time athlete, perusing a double major plus a minor. This does not leave me much time to work during the school year. I have some academic scholarships that help pay for part of my tuition. Any scholarships I receive help me greatly in achieving my goal of earning my bachelor's and master's in nutrition and dietetics so I can become a registered dietitian. The Foundation's application offered one form to apply for multiple scholarships. I figured I had nothing to lose, only the opportunity to gain, so why not.
How will the scholarship funds help support your continued success within your educational program?
The academic scholarships I have combined with the college savings my parents have for me is not enough to pay for all 6 years of my college education. This scholarship will allow me to focus more of my limited time on my studies instead of working additional hours to cover the cost of my education. The cost of higher education continues to increase each year, so every scholarship, no matter how big or how small, helps to defray that cost. Being selected for this scholarship also shows me that others believe in what I am doing and want me to achieve my goals.
What advice do you have for your colleagues about seeking out and applying for Foundation funding opportunities?
My advice is to explore all of the Foundation funding opportunities available to you. The paperwork may seem daunting at first, but the potential reward is well worth it. Every scholarship helps, and if you don't apply you won't receive that help.
Scholarship and Award Application and Timeline Information
All applications and timelines for Foundation funding opportunities are made available electronically within the Foundation’s application portal. Generally, the scholarship applications are available from mid- February to mid-April, most award and grant applications are available from December to February, and fellowship opportunities are posted as they become available.
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With Your Help, We Can Do Even More
Our Foundation is the only charitable organization dedicated exclusively to supporting nutrition and dietetics professionals by empowering them to help consumers live healthier lifestyles. Our Foundation does not receive any portion of member dues and is funded solely by donations. Please consider making a gift today to support our Make It a Million Scholarship Campaign that will help us to award one million dollars in scholarships annually to Academy members, students and dietetic interns at all levels of study.
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