Class of 2025 Fall Presentation - October 3, 2023
Junior Opportunities
On this page, you will find a list of opportunities/contests/scholarships that are available to high school juniors. These are organized by the month in which they are DUE. So please make sure you are checking often and looking at the deadlines.
College Visit Form - Please click on this form link to access the College Visit Form. You will find information on this how works on the form itself.
October Deadlines
VFW - Voice of Democracy Scholarship
Deadline: October 31, 2023
23-24 Theme: "What are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?"
Deadline: October 31, 2023
23-24 Theme: "What are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?"
- Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.
- The national first place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school.
- A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$16,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000.
- CLICK HERE for more information.
November Deadlines
American Legion - Oratorical Contest
Entry deadline: November 30, 2023
This is a speech contest offered to high school students with awards ranging from $2000 - $5,000 at the state finals. Students will compete and potentially advance to higher levels. The purpose of the contest is to develop knowledge and appreciation of the United States Constitution, the ability to think and speak clearly and critically, and the acceptance of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. The Legion contest is a partner with the National Speech & Debate Association, the honor society for high-school students (formerly the National Forensic League).
CLICK HERE for more details and how to enter.
Entry deadline: November 30, 2023
This is a speech contest offered to high school students with awards ranging from $2000 - $5,000 at the state finals. Students will compete and potentially advance to higher levels. The purpose of the contest is to develop knowledge and appreciation of the United States Constitution, the ability to think and speak clearly and critically, and the acceptance of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. The Legion contest is a partner with the National Speech & Debate Association, the honor society for high-school students (formerly the National Forensic League).
- High School: Before November 30, 2023
- County: Between December 4 and 19, 2023
- District: Before January 23, 2024
- Zone: Before February 13, 2024
- State Finals: On Sunday February 26, 2024
CLICK HERE for more details and how to enter.
December Deadlines
Missouri Boys / Girls State
December 9 - Resume to Mrs. Austene
Early Decision Application Deadline: January
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 15
This is a week long leadership program designed specifically for high school juniors. Students will learn about government by creating a fictional state, running for offices, creating cities, counties, and establishing laws. This is a historical program that can be put on your resumes for a lifetime. College credit and scholarship opportunities are available for interested students. We encourage students with a 3.0 or above to apply.
Location: Lindenwood University
Boys State
Girls State
December 9 - Resume to Mrs. Austene
Early Decision Application Deadline: January
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 15
This is a week long leadership program designed specifically for high school juniors. Students will learn about government by creating a fictional state, running for offices, creating cities, counties, and establishing laws. This is a historical program that can be put on your resumes for a lifetime. College credit and scholarship opportunities are available for interested students. We encourage students with a 3.0 or above to apply.
Location: Lindenwood University
Boys State
- Fee $500 - Cost sponsored by local Hallsville organizations
- Boys State Website
- June 22 - 29, 2024
Girls State
- Fee: $300 - Cost sponsored by local Hallsville organizations
- Girls State Website
- June 22 - June 29, 2024
January Deadlines
Missouri Fine Arts Academy
Registration Deadline - January 28
Cost - FREE
Date: June 2-15
Website: CLICK HERE
The Missouri Fine Arts Academy (MFAA) is a two-week summer residential program for highly motivated sophomore, junior and senior high school student artists.
Registration Deadline - January 28
Cost - FREE
Date: June 2-15
Website: CLICK HERE
The Missouri Fine Arts Academy (MFAA) is a two-week summer residential program for highly motivated sophomore, junior and senior high school student artists.
- visual arts/mixed media
- theatre
- dance
- creative writing
- music (instrumental and vocal)
February Deadlines
Optimist International Essay Contest
- $100 dollars will be awarded to a Hallsville student with the chance to compete for an additional $2,500 at the district level. This contest is open to all students ages 19 and under. This is not a senior only scholarship opportunity.
- Between 700 - 800 words
- "Who is an Everyday Hero that Brings Out the Optimism in You? "
- Click here for more information about the Optimist Essay Contest.
- Click here for the application and information including the scoring rubric.
ATSU - Truman Healthcare Academy
Application & Essay due February
Location: Truman State University (Kirksville)
Date: June 25-30
Cost: $975
Website: CLICK HERE
Open to rising sophomres, juniors, and seniors.
The ATSU-Truman Healthcare Academy offers an integrated curriculum that exposes students to the methods and skills of a variety of health professions, including:
In addition, students visit and practice skills in health care and medical training facilities including the cadaver anatomy lab, nursing patient simulators, exercise physiology lab, athletic training lab, speech and hearing clinic, osteopathic manual muscle therapy lab, and diagnostic ultrasound for a few examples. Students personally interact with a variety of health care professionals including physicians, surgeons, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, epidemiologists, athletic trainers, speech pathologists, prosthetics, anatomy instructors, and exercise physiologists.
Application & Essay due February
Location: Truman State University (Kirksville)
Date: June 25-30
Cost: $975
Website: CLICK HERE
Open to rising sophomres, juniors, and seniors.
The ATSU-Truman Healthcare Academy offers an integrated curriculum that exposes students to the methods and skills of a variety of health professions, including:
- osteopathic medicine
- nursing
- orthopedic surgery
- prosthetics
- personal training
- exercise physiologist
- audiology/speech pathology
- physical and occupational therapy
- nutrition
- and other health professions
In addition, students visit and practice skills in health care and medical training facilities including the cadaver anatomy lab, nursing patient simulators, exercise physiology lab, athletic training lab, speech and hearing clinic, osteopathic manual muscle therapy lab, and diagnostic ultrasound for a few examples. Students personally interact with a variety of health care professionals including physicians, surgeons, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, epidemiologists, athletic trainers, speech pathologists, prosthetics, anatomy instructors, and exercise physiologists.
March Deadlines
Boone Electric Youth Tour Contest
Application Opens: January 2024
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 1, 2024 by 5pm
Location: Washington D.C.
Date: June 14 - 20, 2024
Cost: None
Website: CLICK HERE
Application Opens: January 2024
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 1, 2024 by 5pm
Location: Washington D.C.
Date: June 14 - 20, 2024
Cost: None
Website: CLICK HERE
- Public, private or homeschooled high school junior students can apply to experience a Trip of a Lifetime by applying for the 2022 Youth Tour.
- Up to ten students may receive a $500 scholarship.
- Four finalists will get an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C.
- You will represent the co-op at a leadership conference, see national landmarks, monuments and places ingrained in American history.
Mizzou Mini-Med School
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 17, 2024
Location: University of Missouri - Columbia
Date: Session 1: June 2-6, 2024 Session2: June 9-13, 2024
Cost: $650.00 Per session (students choose 1 session to attend)
Website: CLICK HERE
This overnight camp is for Missouri high school rising seniors who are interested in a career in medicine. Students will attend lectures and will participate in the same Patient Based Learning (PBL) curriculum that Mizzou medical students do. We will have lots of hands-on clinical experiences, time our simulation and anatomy centers and social events in the evenings. This is a great experience for anyone who is considering medical school after college.
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 17, 2024
Location: University of Missouri - Columbia
Date: Session 1: June 2-6, 2024 Session2: June 9-13, 2024
Cost: $650.00 Per session (students choose 1 session to attend)
Website: CLICK HERE
This overnight camp is for Missouri high school rising seniors who are interested in a career in medicine. Students will attend lectures and will participate in the same Patient Based Learning (PBL) curriculum that Mizzou medical students do. We will have lots of hands-on clinical experiences, time our simulation and anatomy centers and social events in the evenings. This is a great experience for anyone who is considering medical school after college.
- Missouri high school students interested in careers in medicine can preview what medical school is like during Mini Medical School.
- The students will stay in residence halls and eat in dining rooms on campus.
- We strongly encourage students from underrepresented minority groups and from rural communities to apply.
- Participation will be open to current Missouri high school juniors.
Horatio Alger Association Scholarships for High School Juniors
Deadline: March 15, 2024
The Association will award more than 100 National Scholarships at $25,000 each, and more than 500 State Scholarships at $10,000 each.
To be eligible to apply for a Horatio Alger National or State Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Deadline: March 15, 2024
The Association will award more than 100 National Scholarships at $25,000 each, and more than 500 State Scholarships at $10,000 each.
To be eligible to apply for a Horatio Alger National or State Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled full time as a high school junior in the United States
- Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit public or private institution in the United States (students may start their studies at a two-year institution and then transfer to a four-year institution)
- Demonstrate critical financial need ($55,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)
- Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
- Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
- Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0; and
- Be a United States citizen
Mizzou MedPrep: Medical Explorations Workshop
Application Opens: TBD
Application and Materials must be submitted by : Till Spots Are Filled (Limited number of participants accepted)
Location: University of Missouri - Columbia
Date: TBD Online Workshop: TBD
Cost: 50.00 Per session
Online Application: CLICK HERE
Account Access: CLICK HERE
Application Opens: TBD
Application and Materials must be submitted by : Till Spots Are Filled (Limited number of participants accepted)
Location: University of Missouri - Columbia
Date: TBD Online Workshop: TBD
Cost: 50.00 Per session
Online Application: CLICK HERE
Account Access: CLICK HERE
- The workshop is a 2-week online course and one-day In-person Event.
- The students will explore careers in healthcare, enhance self-awareness through personal assessment, and connect with peers, students, staff and faculty in healthcare.
Missouri Youth Leadership Forum (MO-YLF)
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
Location: Mizzou
Date: July 16th - July 20
Cost: FREE
The Missouri Youth Leadership Forum (MO-YLF) is a five-day overnight program that empowers high school students with disabilities (IEP or 504).
Approximately 30 Missouri students will participate in developing leadership skills and career awareness.
o Stay in the dorms with a roommate and other participants from the Forum
How to Apply: Visit our website and complete the application (https://disability.mo.gov/gcd/ylf.htm)
If you have questions, need assistance filling out your application, or need an alternative format, please email [email protected] or call our office at 573-751-2600 or 800-877-8249
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
Location: Mizzou
Date: July 16th - July 20
Cost: FREE
The Missouri Youth Leadership Forum (MO-YLF) is a five-day overnight program that empowers high school students with disabilities (IEP or 504).
Approximately 30 Missouri students will participate in developing leadership skills and career awareness.
- Experience college life:
o Stay in the dorms with a roommate and other participants from the Forum
- Participate in various social activities:
- Meet people with disabilities from all walks of life to hear their stories and see firsthand that you can do anything in life
- Learn about the legislative process and advocacy.
- Learn about asking for accommodations in the workplace and post-secondary education
- Meet alumni and other students from other parts of Missouri
- Learn about what resources can help you live your life to the fullest
- Gain lots of self-determination and how to advocate for yourself
How to Apply: Visit our website and complete the application (https://disability.mo.gov/gcd/ylf.htm)
If you have questions, need assistance filling out your application, or need an alternative format, please email [email protected] or call our office at 573-751-2600 or 800-877-8249
April Deadlines
Constitutional Democracy Academy
Aplication Deadline: April 1
Location: Mizzou
2024 Dates: July 8-12 session / July 22-26 session
Cost: $100
This summer seminar is open to rising high school juniors and seniors who are deeply interested in American history and American politics. This seminar is hosted on Mizzou's campus and students will be housed in campus residence halls.
Discussion topics include:
Click here for the application. (application, letter of rec., transcript, essay of interest)
Aplication Deadline: April 1
Location: Mizzou
2024 Dates: July 8-12 session / July 22-26 session
Cost: $100
This summer seminar is open to rising high school juniors and seniors who are deeply interested in American history and American politics. This seminar is hosted on Mizzou's campus and students will be housed in campus residence halls.
Discussion topics include:
- • The Constitutional Convention
- • Separation of Powers and the Control of the
- Effects of Faction
- • Founding Mothers
- • Slavery and the Constitution
- • The Bill of Rights
- • The Supreme Court
Click here for the application. (application, letter of rec., transcript, essay of interest)
Columbia College - various summer camps
Application Deadline / Cost: Vary per camp.
Location: Columbia College , Columbia MO
Bling It On: Silversmithing 101 (June 3-7) For 11th-12th grade students--Campers will learn the tools and techniques of the jewelry industry and create one-of-a-kind wearable artwork.
CC Choir Fest (June 5-8) For 9th-12th grade students--Led by Columbia College faculty and visiting guest artists from around the country, this four-day overnight camp is an immersive musical experience that will help students find their voice.
Summer Nursing Camp (June 10-14) For 11th-12th grade students--Campers will explore their passion for nursing and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art healthcare simulators.
Girls Who Game (July 22-27) For 6th-12th grade students--Campers will grow their skillsets with Esports professionals, connect with fellow gamers, and learn about various career opportunities in the gaming industry.
CSI: (July 15-19) For 11th-12th grade students. Learn the various procedures and techniques used in forensic labs today. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the entire process, from sampling to a mock trial to prove your case. You will gain a better understanding of the forensic process and how to apply it to a staged crime scene.
Application Deadline / Cost: Vary per camp.
Location: Columbia College , Columbia MO
Bling It On: Silversmithing 101 (June 3-7) For 11th-12th grade students--Campers will learn the tools and techniques of the jewelry industry and create one-of-a-kind wearable artwork.
CC Choir Fest (June 5-8) For 9th-12th grade students--Led by Columbia College faculty and visiting guest artists from around the country, this four-day overnight camp is an immersive musical experience that will help students find their voice.
Summer Nursing Camp (June 10-14) For 11th-12th grade students--Campers will explore their passion for nursing and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art healthcare simulators.
Girls Who Game (July 22-27) For 6th-12th grade students--Campers will grow their skillsets with Esports professionals, connect with fellow gamers, and learn about various career opportunities in the gaming industry.
CSI: (July 15-19) For 11th-12th grade students. Learn the various procedures and techniques used in forensic labs today. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the entire process, from sampling to a mock trial to prove your case. You will gain a better understanding of the forensic process and how to apply it to a staged crime scene.
Computer Professions on Demand CPoD
Location: State Technical College of Missouri
Date: June 23 - 27, 2024
Cost: FREE
Application Due Date: April 20 2024
This program will accept 20 students each summer to attend this 5 day program. Students will stay on campus at State Technical College of Missouri and learn about career opportunities in a computer related field. Students will participate in leadership activites and attend field trips to area businesses. No computer experience is necessary. The application does require a teacher / counselor recommendation so it is important that is requesed prior to the due date.
CLICK HERE for the application.
CLICK HERE for the flyer
Location: State Technical College of Missouri
Date: June 23 - 27, 2024
Cost: FREE
Application Due Date: April 20 2024
This program will accept 20 students each summer to attend this 5 day program. Students will stay on campus at State Technical College of Missouri and learn about career opportunities in a computer related field. Students will participate in leadership activites and attend field trips to area businesses. No computer experience is necessary. The application does require a teacher / counselor recommendation so it is important that is requesed prior to the due date.
CLICK HERE for the application.
CLICK HERE for the flyer
Rotary Youth Leadership Academy
Application Opens: January 1
Application and Materials must be submitted by : April 30, 2024
Location: Central Missouri University - Warrensburg, MO
Date: Session I: June 23-26, 2024 Session II: July 7-10th, 2024
Cost: $475
Website: CLICK HERE
Application Opens: January 1
Application and Materials must be submitted by : April 30, 2024
Location: Central Missouri University - Warrensburg, MO
Date: Session I: June 23-26, 2024 Session II: July 7-10th, 2024
Cost: $475
Website: CLICK HERE
- The Missouri RYLA Academy is a 4-day, 3-night leadership academy for high school sophomores and juniors who exhibit a desire for community service.
- Developed by some of Missouri's top professional educators, the curriculum is designed to identify and enhance the qualities of servant leadership for each participant, educate them on how to successfully implement a service project, and inspire them to live a lifetime of "Service Above Self."
- In addition, participants are introduced to the programs and values Rotary has to offer.
- Established in 1992, Missouri RYLA Academy has educated and inspired more than 2,000 students statewide.
- It is currently recognized as a model program for RYLA Academies worldwide.
Glider Lehrman Scholarship Program
Deadline: April 15, 2023
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is proud to partner with Hamilton on the Ham4Progress Award for Educational Advancement. The award supports college-bound high school juniors from communities that directly experience the consequences of social injustice and/or discrimination.
This award will provide up to seventeen students $2,000 each for educational purposes in 2023. The $2,000 award must be used toward educational purposes, which may include
The award is open to college-bound students currently enrolled in grade 11 in the 50 United States and District of Columbia. Students will be subject to the following eligibility requirements:
Please find the application and additional information here.
Deadline: April 15, 2023
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is proud to partner with Hamilton on the Ham4Progress Award for Educational Advancement. The award supports college-bound high school juniors from communities that directly experience the consequences of social injustice and/or discrimination.
This award will provide up to seventeen students $2,000 each for educational purposes in 2023. The $2,000 award must be used toward educational purposes, which may include
- Test preparation courses
- Tutoring
- College visits
- Technology, including laptops, tablets, or other electronic devices used for learning
The award is open to college-bound students currently enrolled in grade 11 in the 50 United States and District of Columbia. Students will be subject to the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a member of a community that directly experiences the consequences of social injustice and/or discrimination
- Be a college-bound high school junior
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale
- Be enrolled in a school that is registered as a Gilder Lehrman Affiliate School in the 50 United States and the District of Columbia
Please find the application and additional information here.
May Deadlines
Pharmacy Camp
Application Deadline: No deadline listed.
2024 Locations: Choice: Mizzou (June 7), Missouri State (June 21), UMKC (June 28)
Cost: $40
This is a one day camp for students interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy.
CLICK HERE: For the application and more information.
Application Deadline: No deadline listed.
2024 Locations: Choice: Mizzou (June 7), Missouri State (June 21), UMKC (June 28)
Cost: $40
This is a one day camp for students interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy.
- Take part in making actual medicine in the compounding lab.
- Hear from community pharmacists about their daily roles.
- Interact with clinical pharmacists in specialty practices such as oncology, pediatrics, cardiology, emergency room and more.
CLICK HERE: For the application and more information.
Audrey Walton Youth Leadership Conference
Application Due: May 20 (extended to June 1)
Location: Mizzou
Date: July 20 - 21 (overnight stay in dorms)
Cost: FREE
Website: CLICK HERE
Started in 1995 as a program of the Show-Me STATE GAMES, the Audrey Walton Youth Leadership Program provides the opportunity for 30 high school rising juniors and seniors from around the state of Missouri, to visit the University of Missouri in Columbia and gain skills that will assist them in becoming leaders in their respective communities and schools. Sponsored by Audrey Walton, a great leader in her own right, the program promotes the importance of leadership, physical fitness, higher education, and a healthy lifestyle.
The conference lasts for two days and runs in conjunction with the Show-Me STATE GAMES Opening Ceremonies. The students have the opportunity to engage in several activities that encourage the students to step up and be leaders amongst themselves, along with the opportunity to learn leadership tactics to help them excel in their high schools, extracurricular activities, as well as in their respective communities.
The goal of the Audrey Walton Youth Leadership Program is to help every student build the confidence needed to successfully lead others while creating an enjoyable experience for attendees to share with their peers upon returning home.
Application Due: May 20 (extended to June 1)
Location: Mizzou
Date: July 20 - 21 (overnight stay in dorms)
Cost: FREE
Website: CLICK HERE
Started in 1995 as a program of the Show-Me STATE GAMES, the Audrey Walton Youth Leadership Program provides the opportunity for 30 high school rising juniors and seniors from around the state of Missouri, to visit the University of Missouri in Columbia and gain skills that will assist them in becoming leaders in their respective communities and schools. Sponsored by Audrey Walton, a great leader in her own right, the program promotes the importance of leadership, physical fitness, higher education, and a healthy lifestyle.
The conference lasts for two days and runs in conjunction with the Show-Me STATE GAMES Opening Ceremonies. The students have the opportunity to engage in several activities that encourage the students to step up and be leaders amongst themselves, along with the opportunity to learn leadership tactics to help them excel in their high schools, extracurricular activities, as well as in their respective communities.
The goal of the Audrey Walton Youth Leadership Program is to help every student build the confidence needed to successfully lead others while creating an enjoyable experience for attendees to share with their peers upon returning home.
June Deadlines
The Joyce Ivy Foundation Summer Scholars Program
Application Opens: TBD
Application and Materials must be submitted by : TBD
Location: TBD
Date: TBD
Cost: 450.00 (local organizations can sponsor student)
Website: CLICK HERE
Rankin Tech Adventure Academy
Registration Opens: TBD
Cost: $95.00
Pat Walker Missouri Public Affairs Academy
Application Opens: TBD
Application must be submitted by : TBD
Location: Missouri State University.
Date: TBD
Cost: 50.00 registration fee due after a student has been accepted
Website: CLICK HERE
Application Opens: TBD
Application and Materials must be submitted by : TBD
Location: TBD
Date: TBD
Cost: 450.00 (local organizations can sponsor student)
Website: CLICK HERE
- The Summer Scholars program provides scholarships for talented female (sophomore or junior) high school students to participate in a summer academic program at one of our partner programs – some of the most rigorous and selective colleges and universities in the country. Scholars receive a full or partial scholarships, based on demonstrated financial need, to cover tuition, room and board, travel expenses, and supplies. The Joyce Ivy Foundation works directly with our set of program partners to combine Joyce Ivy scholarships with additional financial aid provided by the summer program.
Rankin Tech Adventure Academy
Registration Opens: TBD
Cost: $95.00
- The Summer Adventure Academy program encourages middle and high school students to complete high school and further their education in a STEM-related discipline and ultimately join the technical workforce in their community by earning a STEM degree.
- These week-long summer camps promote STEM career exploration by providing outside the classroom educational experiences to raise students’ aspirations. The Summer Adventure Academies engage students in real-world, hands-on camps that demonstrate the skills necessary in STEM occupations. More than 2,000 students have participated in the program since 2010.
- Click here for the website and registration links
- Click here for a brochure
Pat Walker Missouri Public Affairs Academy
Application Opens: TBD
Application must be submitted by : TBD
Location: Missouri State University.
Date: TBD
Cost: 50.00 registration fee due after a student has been accepted
Website: CLICK HERE
- The Pat Walker Missouri Public Affairs Academy targets rising high school seniors who are interested in learning about community engagement, diverse perspectives, and leadership.
- Each summer the Academy brings talented high school students from throughout the state together to develop their understanding of public affairs.
- The Academy combines presentations by guest speakers with discussions, hands-on activities and service projects, and gives students the opportunity to learn from talented and accomplished political and community leaders in the state.
- The MPAA has three main goals:
- 1) To help students understand their role as citizens working "for the greater good",
- 2) To provide a forum for discussion with distinguished speakers including community leaders, government officials, and university professors,
- 3) To provide students with the leadership skills necessary to become actively involved in their communities.
- 1) To help students understand their role as citizens working "for the greater good",