Applying to the Scholarship Fund

The Steve Smith Scholarship for Academic Achievement is awarded based on academic achievement, community involvement and extra-curricular activities of Pershing High School seniors. If you are a student at Pershing High School, or know of one that may be interested in the scholarship, please review the requirements and application process outlined below.

The applications submitted for consideration present the best and brightest representatives of Detroit Pershing High School. After reviewing all the applicants, one deserving recipient per year is chosen and awarded a scholarship which provides endless academic, social, and career opportunities. These students are also given access to the Clara Bell Smith Center on MSU’s campus; a state-of-the-art building that provides support for student-athletes and their efforts in furthering their education and careers.

Requirements

Applicants must be full-time students of Detroit Pershing High School and must apply and be accepted to Michigan State University to be eligible for the scholarship.

Application Process

  • Obtain an application from the Guidance and Counseling Office at Pershing High School.
  • Complete the application, and attach the following:
    1. Academic recognition or community service awards you have received;
    2. Summer programs you have attended;
    3. Extracurricular activities you participated in at Pershing High School and in your community (i.e. clubs, volunteer experience, sports, etc.);
    4. Service or community groups/activities in which you have participated;

Return the completed application and attached information to the Guidance and Counseling Office at Pershing High School. DO NOT email applications to the Steve Smith Foundation. The Guidance and Counseling Office will then complete the necessary academic information and forward all applications to MSU.

The recipient of the scholarship will be notified of the award by the MSU Office of Admissions and Scholarships. Those applicants that are declined will be notified as well.

Additional Scholarship Opportunities

Students are encouraged to look beyond the Steve Smith Charitable Fund for additional opportunities to support their education. Please visit the following links to learn more about other scholarships and financial aid options that may be beneficial to you.

State of Michigan Financial Aid Programs

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

MSU Tuition Calculator

MSU Budget Worksheet

Michigan Scholarship Search

Spartan Advantage Program

Federal Pell Grant Program

If you have any questions regarding the Scholarship or application process, please contact the Guidance and Counseling Office at Pershing High School at 313-866-7700, or email us at Steve@SteveSmithCharitableFund.org.