Sophomore Opportunities
October
VFW - Voice of Democracy Scholarship
October 31, 2022
22-23 theme: "Why is the Veteran Important?"
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.
October 31, 2022
22-23 theme: "Why is the Veteran Important?"
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
American Legion - Oratorical Contest
Entry deadline: November 30, 2022
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, 2022
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, 2022
- County: Between December 4 and 19, 2022
- District: Before January 23, 2023
- Zone: Before February 13, 2023
- State Finals: On Sunday February 26, 2023
CLICK HERE for more details and how to enter.
December
Missouri Scholars Academy
Application Deadline - December 1 to Mr. Boyer (see steps below)
2023 Academy June 11 - July 1
Missouri Scholars Academy is a three-week Mizzou residential program for 330 of Missouri’s academically gifted students who are ready to begin their junior year of high school. The Missouri Scholars Academy uses a specially-designed curriculum with interdisciplinary courses, and a variety of stimulating extracurricular activities. There are many steps to the selection process to be selected both by the school and by MO Scholars. Only 1 student may be nominated from Hallsville.
If you are interested in this program please submit the following items to Mrs. Austene by December 1.
The cost of the program has varied over the years from free to $650. 2022 fees were $500. This is a cost to the student but there are typically reduced rates for low income. Local organizations can also help support students upon request.
Application Deadline - December 1 to Mr. Boyer (see steps below)
2023 Academy June 11 - July 1
Missouri Scholars Academy is a three-week Mizzou residential program for 330 of Missouri’s academically gifted students who are ready to begin their junior year of high school. The Missouri Scholars Academy uses a specially-designed curriculum with interdisciplinary courses, and a variety of stimulating extracurricular activities. There are many steps to the selection process to be selected both by the school and by MO Scholars. Only 1 student may be nominated from Hallsville.
If you are interested in this program please submit the following items to Mrs. Austene by December 1.
- 2 Essays - (info listed in the selection process link
- 2 Letters of recommendation
- Must take the PSAT (October) or the ACT (December). I suggest both and we take the higher score.
- Transcript
- School resume
The cost of the program has varied over the years from free to $650. 2022 fees were $500. This is a cost to the student but there are typically reduced rates for low income. Local organizations can also help support students upon request.
Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) Camp
Registration Opens: October 3, 2022
Registration Deadline: December 16, 2022
Location: Webster University, St. Louis MO
Date: June 9 - 11, 2023
Cost: $300
Website: CLICK HERE
HOBY is a 3-4 day summer leadership camp on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University open to Missouri Sophomores. Let your School Counselor know if you would like to be nominted for this.
Registration Opens: October 3, 2022
Registration Deadline: December 16, 2022
Location: Webster University, St. Louis MO
Date: June 9 - 11, 2023
Cost: $300
Website: CLICK HERE
HOBY is a 3-4 day summer leadership camp on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University open to Missouri Sophomores. Let your School Counselor know if you would like to be nominted for this.
- Participate in interactive leadership training, meet state leaders.
- Experience life on a university campus
- Learn about themselves and how to be an impactful leader
- Discover how personal, group, and societal leadership lead to social change
- Hands on activities including a community service project
- Build your high school resume!
January
Optimist International Essay Contest
Application & Essay Due to Austene: January 15, 2023
A local scholarship can 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.
Click here for the application and information including the scoring rubric.
Application & Essay Due to Austene: January 15, 2023
A local scholarship can 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 the application and information including the scoring rubric.
Missouri Leadership Seminar
January 30: Notify your school counselor prior to this date.
Location: University of Central Missouri - Warrensburg
Date: May 31 - June 2, 2024
Cost: FREE - (sponsored by local organizations)
Website: CLICK HERE
The Missouri Leadership Seminar is a 3 day program that provides sophomores the opportunity to discover their leadership potential. MLS brings out the leader inside as they are exposed to panels of professional speakers on many of today's most pressing issues. Students are encouraged to express their unique opinions in a supportive environment and learn to lead through team building activities. Interested student should notify their School Counselor prior to the listed deadline to request a nomination.
January 30: Notify your school counselor prior to this date.
Location: University of Central Missouri - Warrensburg
Date: May 31 - June 2, 2024
Cost: FREE - (sponsored by local organizations)
Website: CLICK HERE
The Missouri Leadership Seminar is a 3 day program that provides sophomores the opportunity to discover their leadership potential. MLS brings out the leader inside as they are exposed to panels of professional speakers on many of today's most pressing issues. Students are encouraged to express their unique opinions in a supportive environment and learn to lead through team building activities. Interested student should notify their School Counselor prior to the listed deadline to request a nomination.
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
ATSU - Truman Healthcare Academy
Application & Essay due by Monday, February 6, 2023
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 by Monday, February 6, 2023
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
Boone Electric CYCLE Leadership Contest
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 1, 2024 by 5pm
Location: Jefferson City, MO
Date: July 16-19, 2024
Cost: None
Website: CLICK HERE
The CYCLE program (Cooperative Youth Conference Leadership Experience) encourages students to learn about electric cooperatives, Missouri government and leadership skills. Boone Electric may send up to six area students to Jefferson City to this fantastic experience. Students are energized from daybreak until lights out, forging friendships and taking home what they learned. This program is open to sophomores each year.
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 1, 2024 by 5pm
Location: Jefferson City, MO
Date: July 16-19, 2024
Cost: None
Website: CLICK HERE
The CYCLE program (Cooperative Youth Conference Leadership Experience) encourages students to learn about electric cooperatives, Missouri government and leadership skills. Boone Electric may send up to six area students to Jefferson City to this fantastic experience. Students are energized from daybreak until lights out, forging friendships and taking home what they learned. This program is open to sophomores each year.
The Joyce Ivy Foundation Summer Scholars Program
Application Opens: December
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 1
Cost: Scholarships available based on merit and financial need
Website & Application: 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.
Application Opens: December
Application and Materials must be submitted by : March 1
Cost: Scholarships available based on merit and financial need
Website & Application: 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.
Mizzou MedPrep: Medical Explorations Workshop
Application Opens:
Application and Materials must be submitted by : Untill Spots Are Filled (Limited number of participants accepted)
Location: University of Missouri - Columbia
Date: Online Workshop: June 13 - June 24, 2022; In-Person Event: June 24, 2022
Cost: 50.00 Per session
Online Application: CLICK HERE
Account Access: CLICK HERE
Application Opens:
Application and Materials must be submitted by : Untill Spots Are Filled (Limited number of participants accepted)
Location: University of Missouri - Columbia
Date: Online Workshop: June 13 - June 24, 2022; In-Person Event: June 24, 2022
Cost: 50.00 Per session
Online Application: CLICK HERE
Account Access: CLICK HERE
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
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.
May
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
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
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.
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
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
June
Audrey Walton Youth Leadership Conference
Deadline June 1, 2023 or until spots are filled
Cost: FREE
2023: July 20 - 21
This leadership program is open to 30 rising juniors / seniors each summer on Mizzou's campus. This program promotes the importance of leadership, physical fitness, higher educaiton, and a healthy lifestyle. This is a 2 day conference and runs in conjunction with the Show-Me State Games Opening Ceremonies. Students will participate in leadership activities to help them excel in their high schools, extracurricular activities, as well as in their respoective communities.
Deadline June 1, 2023 or until spots are filled
Cost: FREE
2023: July 20 - 21
This leadership program is open to 30 rising juniors / seniors each summer on Mizzou's campus. This program promotes the importance of leadership, physical fitness, higher educaiton, and a healthy lifestyle. This is a 2 day conference and runs in conjunction with the Show-Me State Games Opening Ceremonies. Students will participate in leadership activities to help them excel in their high schools, extracurricular activities, as well as in their respoective communities.