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Community Scholars

Applications now available - due April 1, 2012!

What is the Community Scholars Program?

HCC's Community Scholars Program gives graduating high school students in Heartland Community College Distict 540 the chance to pay for college at Heartland by performing community service and building leadership skills. The intensive two-year program uses leadership training and experiential learning and is based in community service (a minimum of 5 hours per week at a site meeting program criteria). Community Scholars can volunteer at a variety of local organizations, including those specializing in animal care, basic needs, child/youth recreation, cultural events, education, health care, non-profit retail and services directed at children, the disabled, seniors, or other special interest groups.

Giving back is the main idea.

Heartland's Community Scholars Program prepares students for transfer to selective institutions by challenging them to achieve academic excellence, leadership opportunities, and experiential learning based on community service. Students learn the meaning of volunteerism and social responsibility through academic and personal experiences with local social service agencies.

Photo of the Community Scholars

How do I apply or get more information?

Download the application* (available in PDF format, 4 pages, 329 KB) and recommendation form* (available in PDF format, 2 pages, 269 KB). Please note two letters of recommendation are required along with the completed application. Applications are also available at all District 540 high schools through the guidance department. In addition, applications also are available at the College's Financial Aid office. For more information, contact Pamela Sweetwood, director of Special Programs, at (309) 268-8168 for an application or for additional information.

What is the deadline for applying?

Community Scholars applications are due April 1, 2012.

Who qualifies for the program, and what is the selection process?

The Community Scholars program is specifically designed for recent high school graduates of District 540. Admittance to the program is based on high school academic performance, achievement scores, recommendations and the quality of the application. A Heartland Community College committee of faculty and staff members will review applications. Potential participants may be invited to HCC for an interview. Written notification of the committee's decisions will be mailed to applicants in May.  A maximum of fifteen scholarships are available annually.

What do Community Scholars receive?

Community Scholars receive:

  • A waiver of all tuition and fees up to a maximum of four semesters of full-time enrollment and two summer sessions (12 to 19 hours per semester and 8 summer semester hours) at Heartland as part of a two-year program of study
  • A program mentor who offers guidance and who encourages academic excellence
  • The attention of a designated advisor who can assist with transfer opportunities at selective US colleges and universities
  • On-campus leadership opportunities
  • Practical work experience
  • A chance to develop close friendships with other participants
  • A $300 book allowance for the second, third and fourth semesters of the program

What are the responsibilities of a Community Scholar?

Community Scholars are responsible for the following:

  • Participation in the Community Scholars Program orientation (usually scheduled one week prior to the beginning of the fall semester)
  • Full-time student status (minimum of 12 credit hours in spring and fall semesters)
  • Registration in Introduction to Volunteering (VOL 101) course during the first semester
  • One credit hour Volunteer Internship Course (VOL 299) with a volunteer assignment at a local social service agency -- this course is repeated for three semesters and satisfactory performance is required
  • Maintaining a minimum semester grade point average of 2.75
  • Continuous enrollment at Heartland Community College
  • Maintaining a membership and active participation in meetings and activities for the ROTARACT Club. Visit the Student Engagement Office for more information.
  • Representing Heartland with a positive, "can-do" attitude
  • Full-time commitment to the program through participation in activities, meetings, and leadership training