By SEMA Editors
 Students preparing for careers in the automotive or auto parts industries may be eligible for financial awards of up to $5,000 through the 2014 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF). | |
Applications for automotive scholarships through the 2014 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF) are due March 28, 2014. Students preparing for careers in the automotive or auto parts industries may be eligible for financial awards of up to $5,000.
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket industry leaders and innovators. Scholarship awards range from $2,000 to $3,000, with $5,000 going to the top student. Assistance is available for career paths in the automotive industry in accounting, engineering, race car driver/crew, administration, information technology, sales/marketing, advertising, manufacturing, technicians, design/graphics, photo/journalism and transportation.
“Students coming through the SEMA Scholarship Program have demonstrated great potential and share the enthusiasm and passion that has fueled our industry,” said Zane Clark, SEMA education director. “Our hope is that we’ll continue to attract highly qualified students who will contribute and make strong, positive impacts in our industry.”
Unlike financial aid and student loans, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship is a one-time award that does not have to be paid back. Awards are granted to eligible applicants based on academic achievements, work experience, community involvement, essay content and recommendations. Students may re-apply each year, provided that they still meet the eligibility criteria.
A loan forgiveness award is also available to recent graduates who are working for SEMA-member companies and paying off existing student loans. Details and applications for both the scholarship and the loan-forgiveness awards are available at www.sema.org/scholarships.
The application deadline for all SMSF awards is March 28, 2014. For additional details, visit www.sema.org/scholarships or contact Juliet Marshall at julietm@sema.org or 909-978-6655.