John and Agnes McFarlane Scholarship Fund

College Major/Area of Study: Degree or certification in an occupation related to a life of public service, including majors in healthcare, political science, journalism, education, and social services.

Awarded to Ventura County residents who have graduated from or will graduate from any high school in Ventura County, and will enroll or are enrolled at a career or technical training institute, accredited community college, or a college/university in the state of California. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. Preference will be given to applicants who show promise for a career in public service as evidenced by participation in school or community activities and information provided in the essay. Prior recipients may re-apply for consideration in successive years.

GPA requirements: Graduating high school seniors must have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5, current college students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and past recipients of the John and Agnes McFarlane Scholarship Fund must have a minimum GPA of 2.75.

Required Essay: In 750 words or less, please share how you intend to pursue a life of public service, dedicated to "the dissemination of knowledge and to the public welfare and how your life and values reflect “an abiding faith in American democracy, sound belief in the system of free enterprise, high regard for human rights and freedoms of man and a sincere concern for the welfare of mankind.”