Automotive Scholarship Applications Now Available

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Della Domingo
909/978-6723
dellad@sema.org

AUTOMOTIVE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE

DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Jan. 3, 2012) - Applications for automotive scholarships are now available through the 2012 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF) at www.sema.org/scholarships.  Students preparing for careers in the auto or auto parts industries may be eligible for cash awards ranging from $1,000-$4,000.

"Paying for a high-quality education is a challenge for many people, particularly in today's tough economy," said Jamie Eriksen, SEMA education director. "SEMA is pleased to play a part in helping students prepare for careers in our industry. The specialty-equipment industry is innovative, dynamic and holds many opportunities for the next generation."

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.

Winners will be notified in the summer of 2012. Scholarship payments are sent directly to the student's college, university, trade or vocational school to help offset the cost of tuition. Loan-forgiveness payments are sent directly to the financial institutions.

To review eligibility requirements or to access the application, visit www.sema.org/scholarships or contact Juliet Marshall at julietm@sema.org, 909-978-6655.

About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $27.9 billion specialty automotive industry of 6,383 member-companies. It is the authoritative source for research, data, trends and market growth information for the specialty auto parts industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. For more information, contact SEMA at 1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765, tel: 909/978-6723, or visit www.sema.org or www.enjoythedrive.com.