Current Scholars
As a Golden LEAF Scholarship recipient, you’re part of a special community of individuals who are committed to making a difference in rural North Carolina. Golden LEAF’s mission is to empower you with the tools and resources needed to become successful leaders in your communities.
Your journey
is a testament to your dedication, perseverance, and potential. By receiving a Golden LEAF Scholarship, you’ve taken the first step toward achieving your academic and professional goals. We’re proud to support you on this path.
Our investment
in you is an investment in the future of rural North Carolina. We believe that by helping you succeed, you’ll be able to contribute meaningfully to your communities and drive economic growth.
As a Golden LEAF Scholar
you’re not just a student; you’re a leader. We encourage you to take advantage of the opportunities available to you, both in and out of the classroom. Develop your leadership skills, gain valuable work experience, and build a strong network of connections.
Upon graduation
we hope you’ll choose to return to rural North Carolina and use your talents to make a positive impact. Your success will help to create a brighter future for our state.
Scholar Spotlights
Ashleigh is a Jones County native and Junior at the University of Mount Olive studying Animal Sciences. As a Golden LEAF Scholar, Ashleigh has attended scholar luncheons at UMO, participated in the Rural Internship Initiative, and is a Lead ScholarsConnect Ambassador.
How did you hear about the Golden LEAF Scholarship, and what led you to apply?
During my senior year, my high school agriculture teacher, Chris Hicks, and I sat down and talked about scholarships that I should apply for. He told me about the Golden LEAF Scholarship, how beneficial the organization is to rural communities, and how valuable it could be to me. I could have never imagined just how much Golden LEAF has helped me. They are so much more than a scholarship. They stay in close contact with all of their scholars, present and alumni.
What are your long-term career goals?
My long-term career goals are to begin working at one of the many N.C. Cooperative Extension county centers (specifically a rural community). I enjoy working closely with community members to better help them in the world of agriculture.
I also plan to obtain a master’s degree in either Agricultural Education and Human Sciences or Animal Sciences.
Yesenia is a Richmond County native and a Junior at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte studying Marketing with a minor in Spanish. As a Golden LEAF Scholar, Yesenia has
How did you hear about the Golden LEAF Scholarship, and what led you to apply?
I heard about the Golden LEAF Scholarship through my friend, Carolina. She was a student who I looked up to in High School and I continue to look up to, to this day. She applied for so many scholarships but encouraged me to apply to this one in particular because of the amazing opportunities that arise because of it.
What are your long-term career goals?
After graduation, while I’m not exactly sure where my path will lead, I know that I would love to return to Richmond County. My dream is to start a nonprofit that offers Latino students essential resources and guidance in Spanish, when navigating the college application process, as well as professional development support.
ScholarsConnect
ScholarsConnect is our exclusive Golden LEAF Scholarship Portal. This platform is a space to:
- Connect current and alumni Golden LEAF Scholars through networking and mentorship,
- Share events of interests, jobs, opportunities, and resources, and
- Drive engagement, participation, and idea sharing to advance our mission of increasing opportunities in rural North Carolina.
Current Scholar FAQs
I changed my college at the last minute, can I keep the scholarship?
Yes, as long as the college is one of the approved North Carolina colleges or universities. No out-of-state colleges are on the approved list. Additionally, scholars must notify NCSEAA of the change via email ([email protected]).
I have decided to go to community college, can I use my scholarship there?
No. Golden LEAF does have a community college scholarship program, but you need to apply for that program separately, and it will not be the same amount as the college/university scholarship. More information about our Community Colleges Scholarship can be found here.
If I don’t use all of the scholarship during my undergraduate studies, can I use it for graduate school?
No. This scholarship program is specifically to help students attend undergraduate college.
How do I renew my scholarship each year?
To renew your Golden LEAF Scholarship each year, you must complete and submit the required Golden LEAF Renewal Profile that will be made available to you via your NCSEAA Student Portal account. The renewal process typically begins each year in mid-March. NCSEAA will send an email once the renewal form is available. Be sure to have your most current email (the one you check regularly) listed in your NCSEAA Student Portal account to make sure you do not miss the email.
In addition to completing and submitting the required Golden LEAF Scholarship Renewal Profile, you will need to meet the following scholarship eligibility requirements:
- Have a fully processed FAFSA record on file with the US Dept. of Education for the upcoming school year,
- Enroll full-time (minimum 12 credit hours) for financial aid purposes each semester at a participating college/university, and
- Meet the Satisfactory Academic Program (SAP) policy of your college/university.
How do my scholarship funds get to my college?
The release of Golden LEAF Scholarship funding to colleges/universities begins shortly after the start of classes each semester. NCSEAA electronically transfers the scholarship funds to the college/university. Many institutions reflect the award on student accounts as anticipated (pending) financial aid until the funding is received by the school. Generally, funding is released by the third week of August (fall semester) and January (spring semester) for scholars whose eligibility has been certified by their institution.
Share Your Story
#glscholarship
How are you redefining what’s possible for students from North Carolina? Posting with the #glscholarship hashtag lets us—and your fellow scholars—stay informed about how you’re continuing to excel and make an impact at your college and in your hometown. Tell us about what you’re working on, what you’re participating in, where you’re headed, and with whom you’re collaborating.
