Through the generosity of various local individuals and organizations, a number of scholarships and grants are available at PDCCC to help students “Get Ahead.” These scholarships provide access to college for many students who do not qualify for financial aid on paper, but have limited resources to pursue their education.

Since fall semester begins in August and spring semester is under way, following are a few examples of fall semester scholarship options for those who plan ahead.

Bertella C. Westbrook Memorial Scholarship for Nursing Students

This $750 scholarship (given in fall and spring semesters) was established in memory of Bertella C. Westbrook, R.N., who was a staunch advocate of education and the nursing profession. Criteria for selection include a letter of acceptance into the RN Program at PDCCC, residency in the College’s service area (Franklin, Isle of Wight, Southampton or Suffolk), three letters of recommendation (referencing character, potential for leadership in school activities, community work and financial need) and a short essay on choosing the nursing profession.

Dean Nancy Sandberg Scholarship

To be eligible for this $500 scholarship, applicants must be 25 years or older and enrolled in a certificate or degree program at the College. Also required are two letters of reference and a 300 to 500-word essay explaining why attending PDCCC is a second chance at education and why financial aid is needed.

RE/MAX Career Grant

Established and funded by RE/MAX AcrossTown in Suffolk, this scholarship fund provides two annual $500 Career Preparation Grants for Suffolk students. Criteria include interest in career/job preparation; resident of Suffolk; enrollment in at least six semester hours of an Associate or Applied Science degree or certificate program at PDCCC; two letters of reference; and a 300- to 500-word essay describing career/job chosen and why.

The Jim Lassiter PDCCC Faculty Association Scholarship

Renewable for spring semester, this scholarship covers six hours of tuition, which currently equates to $606. Criteria for selection include a 3.250 cumulative GPA or higher (and maintaining a 3.250 cumulative GPA to continue the scholarship an additional semester) and a 400- to 500-word essay explaining changes in education the applicant foresees in the next 10 to 20 years.

The application deadline for the scholarships is June 25 — with notification by July 23. Information on these scholarships will be posted on the College’s Web site by April 9.

For more information on PDCCC scholarships, call 569-6700, or visit www.pdc.edu. For details on how to establish a scholarship, call 569-6791.