Albright Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Albright College

Here’s a clearer, teacher-style version of the information — organized so a busy high school student (or their counselor/parent) can quickly understand what the Eugene Shirk Scholarship is, how to apply, and what else Albright offers. What the Eugene Shirk Scholarship is - Albright College awards 25 Eugene Shirk Scholarships each year. The scholarship honors the late Albright math professor and coach Eugene Shirk and is intended for students from Berks County who demonstrate community service, leadership, strong character, and academic commitment. Award amount and renewal rules - Each Shirk Scholar receives $22,000 per year — $88,000 over four years. - Scholarships are for new, full-time students and are renewable for each year the student is enrolled. - To renew, students must: attend as a full-time day student on Albright’s Reading campus and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher. Who is eligible - Current high school seniors who attend a Berks County high school, or home-schooled students who reside in Berks County. How to apply (deadlines and required materials) - Key deadline: February 1. To receive full consideration you must complete both: - The Albright College application for admission, and - The Shirk Scholarship application. - The Shirk application asks for a written essay or a video essay — be sure to upload whichever you choose. Selection process and what the committee looks for - After both applications are submitted, candidates are reviewed by the Shirk Scholarship Committee. - A subset of applicants become finalists and may be invited to an interview (in person or virtual). - The committee evaluates: - school and community service, - extracurricular involvement, - strength of character and leadership, - academic achievement, - the quality of the scholarship essay, - and personal interaction during the interview. - Tip: Treat the interview as a friendly conversation but come prepared to discuss examples of service and leadership and why those experiences matter to you. Other awards at Albright you might consider - Legacy Award: If you are a child or grandchild of an Albright graduate, you may be eligible. Provide documentation of legacy status in your application (before an admission offer is made). - Talent Awards: If you have outstanding creative talent and leadership potential, you may be invited to apply for a Talent Award. These renewable grants are awarded based on portfolio, interview, or audition. Quick checklist - Confirm you meet the Berks County eligibility criteria. - Complete and submit the Albright admission application by Feb 1. - Complete and submit the Shirk Scholarship application by Feb 1, including your essay or video essay. - Keep copies of any legacy documentation if applicable. - Prepare a concise essay and be ready to talk about specific service and leadership experiences in an interview. If you want, I can help you draft or revise a scholarship essay or prep answers for a Shirk interview.