Gracious Hearts Pathway to Excellence Scholarship

$1,000
2 winners, $500 each
Awarded
Application Deadline
Apr 28, 2025
Winners Announced
May 28, 2025
Education Level
High School
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school student
Location:
Southeast Houston
GPA:
2.5 GPA or higher
Field of Study:
Business, nursing, psychology, sociology, or related human services

Gracious Hearts Home Care is owned by Shameka Idusuyi and is dedicated to supporting students from Southeast Houston who aspire to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The fields of business, nursing, psychology, and sociology all align with Shameka's values of compassion, leadership, and service. Students who will become the next leaders of these fields must demonstrate a passion for growth, learning, and giving back to their communities.

This scholarship reflects Shameka Idusuyi's commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders, caregivers, and changemakers by supporting the next generation of students.

Any high school student who is a Southeast Houston resident with at least a 2.5 GPA may apply for this scholarship opportunity if they will attend college and major in business, nursing, psychology, sociology, or related human services. Applicants should be passionate about making a positive impact in their communities, should demonstrate leadership, service, and resilience, and should have a clear vision for how their education will help others and drive meaningful change.

To apply, tell us how pursuing your field of study will help you make a difference. Additionally, tell us about yourself and your goals.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Impact
Published January 24, 2025
Essay Topic

Describe how pursuing your chosen field of study will allow you to make a positive impact in your community. Share your personal story, your goals, and how this scholarship will help you achieve them. Be sure to highlight any experiences that demonstrate your leadership, resilience, and dedication to helping others.

400–600 words

Winning Applications

Alex Green
Summer Creek High SchoolHouston, TX
Jamiya Johnson
Nimitz Senior High SchoolHouston, TX
My journey to pursue a degree in psychology stems from a deep-rooted passion for understanding human behavior and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in my community. Growing up in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that individuals, especially adolescents and children, face on a daily basis. These experiences have fueled my desire to study psychology and work towards improving the mental health and well-being of those around me. From a young age, I have been intrigued by the intricacies of the human mind and why individuals make certain decisions that may not always align with their best interests. This curiosity led me to delve into the field of psychology, where I discovered a profound sense of purpose in helping others navigate through life's complexities and challenges. As I progressed through my academic journey, I realized the pressing need for mental health support and resources in my community, particularly for young individuals who are often overlooked or underserved. My decision to pursue a degree in psychology was solidified through my personal experiences with mental health challenges. I have faced moments of doubt, anxiety, and uncertainty, which have allowed me to empathize with others who may be going through similar struggles. By seeking help and support, I have learned the importance of resilience and perseverance in overcoming obstacles, and I am determined to use my own experiences to positively impact the lives of those in need. In choosing to study psychology at Houston Christian University, I aim to equip myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the mental health needs of adolescents and children in my community. With a strong foundation in psychology, I envision myself working as a counselor or therapist, providing guidance, support, and hope to those who may be facing emotional or psychological challenges. Additionally, I plan to further my education by pursuing a Doctorate Degree in psychology, allowing me to delve deeper into research and intervention strategies that can benefit individuals of all ages. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in helping me achieve my academic and professional goals. It would provide me with the financial support needed to pursue my education without the burden of overwhelming student loans. Moreover, it would serve as a validation of my dedication to making a difference in the field of psychology and my commitment to serving my community with empathy, compassion, and resilience. In conclusion, my journey in psychology is not just about studying the human mind, but about using that knowledge to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Through leadership, resilience, and dedication, I hope to bring about positive change in my community and beyond, one individual at a time. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting my aspirations to create a brighter and healthier future for those in need.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Apr 28, 2025. Winners will be announced on May 28, 2025.