Why Taking Challenging Classes in High School is Important for Students!
March 3, 2026
Transitioning from high school to college is a major lifestyle
The current RISE Financial Literacy Scholarships application link will close on June 30, 2026, and will no longer accept new submissions or revisions. A new application link will go live on July 1, 2026. You will be able to start a new application here.
Please complete and submit your current application before the June 30, 2026, deadline. Your draft will not carry over to the new system, so that any unsubmitted work will be lost after this date.
Starting July 1, 2026, all new applications must be started and submitted through the new link.
Financial Literacy Scholarships are need-based scholarships that awards students $2,500 in scholarship dollars in exchange for completing Financial Literacy Training. This scholarship was created on the premise that:
HS students participating in service learning activities are 22% points more likely to graduate from college.
HS students participating in service learning score 6.7% higher in reading and 5.9% higher in science achievement.
Over 80% of HS students participating in service learning said they had positive feelings about attending school.
More than 75% of HS students agree that service learning classes are more interesting than other classes.
77% of HS students report acquiring new skill, knowledge & interests as a result of service learning.
67% of HS students report gaining a broader understanding of people & places as a result of service learning.
62% of HS students report a better understanding of the community and how it works.
Hi, my name is Tykiera Gindraw.
As a CORE Scholarship recipient, this support means so much to me, especially as I face the financial challenges of entering my senior year as a nursing student. Covering tuition and other expenses, such as books and clinical fees, can be overwhelming. Your generosity is helping to relieve that financial burden, allowing me to focus on my education and future goals. While I was not raised with financial wealth, the greatest gift life has given me is their unwavering support. Throughout my journey in nursing school, I have come to understand the importance of having a strong support system. Their encouragement continues to motivate me to persevere through the challenges of nursing school.
Before your college journey begins, make connections outside of your dorm and build friendships with people from different backgrounds. Find a healthy balance between enjoying life and staying focused on your studies. Remember, your hard work will pay off, even during those long nights of studying. Take the time to research which college is the best fit for you academically, financially, physically, and emotionally. Also, apply for every scholarship opportunity available; they can make a significant difference and provide valuable financial support when you need it most.
I wish you all the very best as you begin this exciting new chapter. Good luck, and never stop believing in yourselves!
OTHELLO ADJEPONG
Senior, Howard University
I’m incredibly grateful to be a recipient of the RISE Scholarship and a participant in the CORE RISE Program. This opportunity has not only supported me financially, but has also helped me stay grounded in my dream of becoming a dentist. This summer, I’m proud to be interning at the University of Michigan, the top dental school in America — a step that brings me even closer to my goals. Through mentorship, resources, and a powerful network of like-minded scholars, CORE RISE has empowered me to pursue my purpose and continue making an impact both on and off campus.
Transitioning from high school to college is a major lifestyle
Transitioning from high school to college is a major lifestyle
Essentially, being financially literate means that you are able to
