Applications for Distinguished Young Women scholarship now open

Distinguished Young Women of Jefferson and Shelby counties are now accepting applications for its annual scholarship program which makes $1.5 billion in scholarships available for college, said Miranda Wesley, board member for the Jefferson County DYW.

And, it’s free to enter.

Applicants can apply for either theJefferson County or Shelby County program depending on their residence. After applying, participants take part in five competition categories: interview, scholastics, fitness, self-expression and talent. Scores are then tallied, declaring the winner, first runner-up and second runner-up.

Wesley said they typically have 20-25 girls register for the program. 

“This program empowers young ladies to be their best self and strive to be confident, successful contributors to the communities they live in,” she said.

In order to apply, applicants must be a junior in high school, fill out a form online and reside in the county for which theyare applying. 

The application deadline is March 1.

The countywide competition for Jefferson County will be held on July 20-12 at Vestavia Hills High School, and the Shelby County competition will be July 15 at Spain Park High School.

Winners will move on to compete at the state level in Montgomery the following January.

For more information on the application, visit distinguishedyw.org or email shelby@distinguishedyw.org or jefferson@distinguishedyw.org.