The Maine 4-H Foundation and the Waldo County Extension Association has a $500 scholarship available for graduating seniors in Waldo County.

To apply, students must submit a 500- to 1,000-word essay, which must be typed and double spaced, that discusses in what ways, if any, they have been involved with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension or how the mission of Cooperative Extension aligns with their future field of study, according to a news release from the UMaine Extension. Applicants should include their employment history, community service or volunteer work related to their future field of study and what they hope to do after completing their education. Preference will be given to students who intend to serve the community in the fields associated with the mission of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension that includes both the Maine food system and youth education and development.

Please note the evaluation criteria does not include student performance records or grade-point average information. This is a purposeful decision in order to include deserving applicants who may not have the best grades but are dedicated and hardworking, and may not have access to scholarships that focus strictly on academic performance.

For more information, visit www.umaine.edu/waldo. Application deadline is April 30.