UKIAH, Calif. – Students and high school seniors planning to enroll at Mendocino College for the Fall 2011 semester are encouraged to complete a scholarship application by Tuesday, March 1.

Last year, the Mendocino College Foundation and a variety of other donors awarded more than $160,000 in scholarships and book awards to 163 Mendocino College students.

Scholarships range from $250 to $2500 and will be awarded in May for the fall 2011 semester.

The scholarship application is online at www.mendocino.edu. Simply click on “for students” then “scholarships” and select “application packet.”

Students need only fill out one application to be considered for all scholarships for which they meet the donors’ criteria. Last year, applicants were considered in 31 categories and some applicants received as many as three scholarships.

A complete scholarship application packet includes a scholarship application form, student essay, two recommendation letters, and high school seniors need to include their high school transcripts.

Scholarship applications are judged on the student essay, educational goals, academic achievement, financial need, donor criteria, community service and/or volunteerism and neatness.

According to Foundation President Channing Cornell, “the single most important piece of the scholarship packet is the 'student essay.' The student essay should clearly demonstrate the students educational and career goals. It should include qualities such as accomplishments, family background and reflect student’s values and background. Successful essays are clear, concise and neatly prepared.”

Scholarship recipients and their families are invited to attend the annual spring awards ceremony in May at which time they will receive their awards and be honored for their accomplishments.

For more information about the Mendocino College Foundation Scholarship Program, please contact Lana Eberhard, scholarship coordinator at 707-467-1018.