Camryn Dwyer Foster Youth Scholarship

Funded by

Kristy Crowl

Eligibility Requirements

Education level:

Undergraduate or High School Senior

Background:

Experience in the Foster Care system

Education level:

Background:

Undergraduate or High School Senior

Experience in the Foster Care system

There are currently over 400,000 children in foster care. Each year, children who are either mourning the loss of their parents or suffering from parental abuse/neglect are put into temporary housing in the care of other families until they legally become adults.

While some have positive experiences in foster care, most recall the system failing to meet their needs and provide adequate resources after turning 18. The complications surrounding child-welfare reform has led foster care to be unsuccessful for many kids in the system.

Unfortunately, the Foster Care system is all some youth have, limiting the children’s opportunities upon graduation from said facilities. To provide the youth greater access to higher education, the Camryn Dwyer Foster Youth scholarship supports high school seniors and undergraduate students who have been in foster care at some point in their lives.

To apply, please explain how your experiences in foster care shaped your outlook on life and career goals.

Selection Criteria:

Ambition, Boldest Bold.org Profile

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Scholarships for College Students

Published November 28, 2022

Essay Topic

How did your experience in foster care shape your outlook on life and career goals?

400–600 words

Winners and Finalists

June 2023

Winners

norah solaiman

Georgetown University

Rockville, MD

Finalists

Michael Bennie

University of Florida

Miami, FL

Faith Thornton

Marion County High School

Missouri City, TX

Summer Healy

Saddleback Christian Academy

Mission Viejo, CA

Cyrus Harshbarger

The University of Alabama

Orangevale, CA

Winning Application

norah solaiman

Georgetown UniversityRockville, MD

As a child, I never could have imagined the heartache and turmoil I would experience after being taken from home and placed into the foster care system. At just eight years old, I have ripped away from everything I knew and loved, and I was left feeling scared, alone, and completely lost. Every day was a struggle as I bounced from one foster home to another, never feeling truly welcomed or accepted. I missed my parents and my old life so much that it physically hurt, and I struggled to form close relationships with my new caregivers. I often felt misunderstood and isolated, and it was difficult for me to trust anyone. Despite my challenges, I tried to remain strong and make the most of my situation. I excelled in school and made a few close friends, but it was never easy. I couldn't shake the feelings of loneliness and homesickness that lingered inside me, and I couldn't help but wonder what my life would have been like if I had never been taken from my parents. As I approached 18, my fears and doubts reached a new level. I knew that I would soon be forced to leave the foster care system and make it on my own, and I wasn't sure if I was ready for that. I had no family to turn to and no safety net to fall back on, and I was terrified of failing or ending up alone. Despite this, I stay positive and believe in myself. I have worked hard in school and focused on my goals, hoping that one day I could create a life for myself that was filled with love and happiness. I knew that it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to do whatever it took to overcome the obstacles that stood in my way. My experience in foster care has significantly impacted my outlook on life and my career goals as a nurse. Firstly, it has taught me the importance of resilience and determination. Growing up in the foster care system was often challenging, and there were many times when I wanted to give up. But I learned to stay strong and keep working towards my goals, even when things seemed impossible. This has helped me to develop a strong sense of determination and a belief in my abilities, which will be invaluable as I pursue my career as a nurse. Secondly, my experience in foster care has made me appreciate the value of community and support. While in the system, I was fortunate to have a network of friends, family, and mentors who believed in me and offered guidance and encouragement when I needed it. This support has been invaluable in helping me to overcome challenges and stay motivated, and it has taught me the importance of having a solid support system to achieve success. Finally, my experience in foster care has shaped my career goals as a nurse by driving me to want to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Growing up in the system, I saw firsthand the struggles and challenges many people face, making me want to do everything I could to help them. As a nurse, I hope to provide care and support to those in need and make a real difference in their lives. My experience in foster care has inspired me to pursue a career that allows me to give back and positively impact the world.