Michael's Way College Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Michael's Way

Description

**Purpose and what’s offered**
Michael’s Way, in partnership with Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education, awards two full four‑year tuition scholarships to students affected by pediatric cancer. The program pairs financial support with personalized college advising to help scholars find the best-fit institution and navigate admissions. Awards target students ready to begin college in Fall 2027 and are intended to reduce the financial burden of tuition for families managing the long-term impacts of a cancer diagnosis. These scholarships are focused, time-limited, and meant to complement other financial aid sources.

Key takeaways
- Two four‑year tuition scholarships are available.
- Recipients receive individualized college guidance.
- Awards are for students entering college Fall 2027.
- The program supplements, not replaces, other aid sources.

Eligibility

**Who can apply**
Applicants must be completing their junior year of high school, have been diagnosed with pediatric cancer before turning 18, and either live in or receive treatment in the Delaware Valley. Candidates must plan to enroll at one of the program’s partner colleges in Fall 2027 to be eligible. The junior-year requirement gives applicants time to work with the advisory team through the college-application cycle. Applications that do not meet all eligibility criteria will not be considered.

Key takeaways
- Must be a high school junior at time of application.
- Diagnosis of pediatric cancer before age 18 is required.
- Residency or treatment in the Delaware Valley is required.
- Enrollment at a partner college for Fall 2027 is mandatory.

Partner colleges

**Where the scholarship can be used**
The scholarship is valid only at the program’s partner institutions. Applicants must intend to enroll at one of these colleges for Fall 2027; attendance at any other school disqualifies the application. The partner list includes community, four‑year, and trade schools across the region to provide multiple pathways.

Key takeaways
- Scholarship restricted to partner institutions only.
- Intention to enroll at a partner school for Fall 2027 is required.
- Partner options include community, private, public, and trade schools.
- No exceptions for non‑partner institutions.

Partner college list
- Community College of Philadelphia
- Elizabethtown College
- Kutztown University
- Neumann University
- St. Joseph’s University
- University of Delaware
- University of Pennsylvania
- Villanova University
- West Chester University
- Williamson College of the Trades
- Zip Code Wilmington

Award value

**What the scholarship pays for**
Each award covers tuition for up to four years at the chosen partner institution. The scholarship does not cover books, supplies, transportation, housing, or personal expenses—those costs remain the student’s responsibility. Recipients are required to complete the FAFSA so their eligibility for other federal or institutional aid can be assessed and coordinated alongside the scholarship. The program’s advising component helps scholars plan how the scholarship interacts with additional financial aid.

Key takeaways
- Tuition is fully covered for four years.
- Does not cover books, supplies, housing, transportation, or personal expenses.
- FAFSA completion is required to determine additional aid.
- Advising helps coordinate scholarship and other financial support.

Required documents

**What to include with your application**
Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation from non‑family members, high school transcripts that include junior‑year grades, medical confirmation of diagnosis, parents’ 2025 or 2026 tax return, and a one‑page personal essay describing how the cancer experience has shaped their goals. Prepare clear, legible copies of each document and organize them before submitting to streamline the review process. Incomplete applications may not be considered, so double‑check requirements before sending.

Key takeaways
- Two non‑family recommendation letters required.
- Submit transcripts including junior year.
- Provide medical confirmation of pediatric cancer diagnosis.
- Include parents’ 2025 or 2026 tax return and a one‑page personal essay.

Application timeline

**Key dates and rationale**
Applications are accepted between May and August; submit during that window to be considered for the Fall 2027 incoming class. The program focuses on high school juniors to give applicants time to engage with advisors and complete college applications in the senior year. Award notifications and any next steps will follow the application review period. Late submissions are typically not accepted.

Key takeaways
- Application window: May through August.
- Awards are for Fall 2027 matriculation only.
- Junior-year focus provides time for advising and application preparation.
- Submit within the window—late applications are usually ineligible.

Application process and submission

**How to apply**
Complete and submit the online application during the May–August window along with all required documents. You will receive an automatic confirmation when your application is received; retain that confirmation for your records. The application is designed to be straightforward, and completeness and clarity in your essay and recommendations strengthen your submission. Follow application instructions precisely to avoid disqualification for missing materials.

Key takeaways
- Apply online between May and August.
- Automatic confirmation is sent upon submission.
- Complete applications have a stronger chance of being reviewed.
- Follow instructions carefully to avoid missing materials.

Selection and renewal

**How recipients are chosen and how awards continue**
A review committee evaluates applications based on submitted materials—essay, recommendations, academic record, and demonstrated need or merit—and selects two scholars. Recipients must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and participate in an annual check‑in with the advisory team to keep the scholarship active. Failure to meet academic or participation requirements may result in suspension or revocation of funding. The advisory team also supports scholars during renewal to maximize their success.

Key takeaways
- Selection based on application materials and committee review.
- Recipients must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA.
- Annual check‑ins with the advisory team are required for renewal.
- Noncompliance with requirements can lead to loss of the scholarship.

Contact and support

**Where to get help**
If you encounter technical issues—such as an oversized file—or need assistance with any part of the application, contact the program director, Ashley Thompson, at athompson@michaelsway.org. The program team can help alternate submission arrangements or answer procedural questions. Keep the contact email handy and reach out early if you expect problems; last‑minute issues are harder to resolve.

Key takeaways
- For technical help or questions, email athompson@michaelsway.org.
- Contact early if you anticipate submission difficulties.
- The team can provide alternative submission options when needed.

History of the award

**Origins and mission**
Michael’s Way was founded to ensure that families affected by pediatric cancer can pursue higher education despite the financial and practical challenges of illness. The scholarship program, created in partnership with Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education, reflects a commitment to long‑term support—combining tuition assistance with college advising. By offering focused scholarships and mentoring, the program aims to expand opportunities and help scholars achieve their educational and career goals. The partnership leverages community resources to create sustainable impact for affected families.

Key takeaways
- Established to support families impacted by pediatric cancer.
- Partnership with Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education expands capacity.
- Combines tuition funding with targeted advising.
- Designed for lasting educational impact for scholars and families.