McDaniel College introduces new Carroll County Scholars

All 8th and 10th grade students in Carroll County are invited to enroll to participate in receiving college search support and a $100,000 scholarship to McDaniel College through Carroll County Scholars, a new program providing assistance to Carroll County students as they navigate the college search process.

Five women stand together for a photo in front of a white wall with bird decals. — President Julia Jasken (center) and some of our current McDaniel students from Carroll County: Julia Dean, Caitlin Boden, Kaitlyn Flora, and Lauren Logue (l-r).

McDaniel College introduces Carroll County Scholars, a new program providing guidance and support to Carroll County students as they navigate the college search process.

All 8th and 10th grade students who live in Carroll County are invited to enroll to participate in this free program, which includes college readiness workshops and other programming to prepare students in identifying and successfully applying to college.

The cohorts begin in either the fall of 9th or 11th grades and run through the students’ senior year of high school. Eligible students are also guaranteed a $100,000 ($25,000 per year) scholarship to McDaniel College with the opportunity to compete for a full-tuition scholarship upon completion of the program.

“Carroll County Scholars is a transformative program that not only enriches the lives of its participants but also leaves an indelible mark on our community. We chose to launch the program during American Education Week because we know the power of education to change lives," said Jill Centofanti, dean of admissions and financial aid at McDaniel.

Through Carroll County Scholars, students receive practical advice, guidance, and feedback related to planning for college, the college search and application process, scholarships and financial aid, navigating standardized tests, applying as a student-athlete, and more. Students also get a glimpse of college life with special invitations to McDaniel College campus events. The goal of the program is to empower students and their families with the resources, tools, and knowledge to help them make the best college decision.

Since 1984, McDaniel has provided scholarships for Carroll County students to attend the college, funded largely by Carroll County businesses and McDaniel alumni. This re-envisioned program offers additional opportunities to help local students achieve their educational goals.

Students do not need to commit to attending McDaniel College to participate in the program and all Carroll County students are eligible, regardless of whether they attend a public, private, or homeschool. There is no minimum GPA requirement to be involved in Carroll County Scholars. For more information and to register, visit www.mcdaniel.edu/ccs.

Additionally, informational sessions are planned for interested students and families to learn more on Tuesday, February 6, Wednesday, March 13, and Thursday, April 18, with locations and other details to be announced on the program website.