As senior year approaches, many students begin thinking seriously about their future, and for some, that includes finding ways to make college more affordable. Scholarships have become one of the most important opportunities for students looking to continue their education without taking on overwhelming financial stress.
For Hernando High School senior Ann Morgan Hasselman, that hard work paid off in a major way.
Hasselman received a full-ride scholarship, including room and board, to attend the University of Mississippi. She said her success did not come from one moment, but from consistent effort throughout high school.
“I earned this scholarship through my academic achievements within high school,” Hasselman said. “There were obviously tests and work I wanted to just slack on, but I didn’t with scholarships in mind. While it was a lot of work in the moment, I have really gotten to see it pay off.”
Hasselman emphasized that staying motivated, even during difficult moments, played a key role in her success. Like many students, she faced times when balancing schoolwork and personal life felt overwhelming, but she pushed through.
“Absolutely, there were so many classes and moments in high school I wanted to just relax and not worry about my work,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Hasselman found ways to manage her time effectively. She said staying organized and setting realistic goals helped her stay on track, especially when it came to applying for scholarships.
“Balancing really wasn’t as difficult as I thought it would be,” Hasselman said. “Getting a paper planner was so helpful. I attended all my club meetings and just worked on school in class. In my free time, I would set a goal to do a certain amount of applications.”
Hasselman encourages underclassmen to stay focused and remember that their efforts will eventually pay off.
“Keep working hard in school,” she said. “I know in the moment it seems so draining, but I promise when it comes to be senior year, it is so worth it. Knowing all your hard work really does pay off is the most rewarding experience.”
Other students, like senior Evelyn Jewell, are also seeing the benefits of applying for scholarships, even if the process takes time.
“I’ve gotten a couple, not that many though,” Jewell said. “I’ve gotten some scholarship money for my ACT and then received a leadership scholarship as well. Currently, I’m in the process of applying for local scholarships.”
Jewell’s experience highlights an important reality: scholarships are not limited to one big award. Many students receive smaller amounts that can add up significantly over time. From test score-based awards to leadership scholarships and local opportunities, there are a wide variety of options available.
School counselors and teachers often encourage students to apply for as many scholarships as possible, as each application increases the chances of receiving financial aid. Even smaller scholarships can help cover costs like textbooks, housing or meal plans.
With deadlines approaching throughout the spring semester, seniors are reminded to stay proactive and organized. Creating a schedule, keeping track of requirements and dedicating time each week to applications can make the process more manageable.
Ultimately, students like Hasselman and Jewell serve as examples of what is possible with dedication and persistence. Whether it’s earning a full-ride scholarship or collecting smaller awards along the way, the message is clear: putting in the effort now can lead to major opportunities in the future.
For students considering their next steps after high school, scholarships are more than just financial support — they are a reward for hard work and a pathway to achieving long-term goals.
