For DonorsFor Applicants

Hobbies Matter

Funded by
user profile avatar
Gabriella Carter
$2,000
2 winners, $1,000 each
Awarded
Application Deadline
Mar 31, 2022
Winners Announced
May 10, 2022
Education Level
Any
1
Contribution
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school, undergraduate, or graduate

School is crucial, but grades and test scores aren’t everything: people with hobbies and interests tend to have a more well-rounded and enjoyable life. 

Having hobbies allows students to take a break from the everyday school days and engage in activities special to them. This could be sports, arts, movies, clubs, and so much more. Everyone’s hobbies make them unique and give them their own set of specialties and interests. To encourage students in the pursuit of their hobbies, the Hobbies Matter scholarship seeks to award two students who are passionate about the hobbies they engage in. 

Any student can apply if they are in high school, undergraduate or graduate school. To apply, write about one of your favorite hobbies and what it means to you.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Need, Boldest Bold.org Profile
Published January 13, 2022
Essay Topic

Tell us about one of your favorite hobbies and why you enjoy it.

300–500 words

Winning Applications

Zen-Mara Duruisseau
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA
My mom gifted me a tutu at two years old, and that was it, my future as a dancer had begun. I’m now a professional dancer, trained and accomplished in many styles, including Pointé, Ballet, Contemporary, Tap, Hip-Hop, African, and more. On stage, the blue lights stand for places and the white lights call for action, ultimately signaling the personal transformation I will have; morphing into my truest form. When I dance I listen for the soft sniffle of an audience member, as they reach for a tissue to wipe their tears of gratitude. This moment breaks the brief moment of silence that travels throughout the theater as a dance culminates. I begin to feel completely free and happy as I run off into the wings smiling at the roaring applause of the audience sounding in the background. What I find most rewarding about dance is how any fear, doubt, or frustration I have about my life is completely defeated when I perform. I’ve danced pieces about Rosa Parks, soldiers in war, slavery, rape, women’s rights, and so many more powerful topics; but I have also danced lighthearted pieces about board games, joy, and rejoice in the church. Choreographing took these interests further, allowing me to tell stories about a wide variety of things. I’ve created solos about police brutality, George Floyd, covid-19, and recently I created a solo about the Movement to protect black women. I’m able to create art with my body, showing my passion and struggle for activism with every battement and pirouette. Every dollop of sweat produced from my body as I dance fights to tell my story. My choreography shows the work that has been done and unveils the work that needs to be continued in the world. I've traveled the country to share my talents with tens of thousands of people. I’ve won awards, received accolades, and even received scholarships; but the most humbling part of my craft is when I take a bow. I lower my head, lean over slightly, and give thanks to those who witnessed my work hoping they have embraced my vision.
Andrew Yacovone
University of PennsylvaniaHollister, CA

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Mar 31, 2022. Winners will be announced on May 10, 2022.