Now in its fourth year, Shimano continues a key initiative to its ‘Varsity Program’ with scholarships for students pursuing careers in fisheries, conservation and natural resources management. Complete information and the downloadable application form can now be found by clicking here.
High school seniors and both undergrad and graduate college students must be members of B.A.S.S. to apply for the scholarships. The key mission behind the program is to keep the awareness level high in the decline in resource management professionals who fish among high school and college-age anglers, and advise them on the career opportunities available at the state, regional, provincial and federal levels.
Applications for the Varsity Program scholarships are being accepted through June 15. According the Shimano Youth Fishing Coordinator Frank Hyla, “three of our past scholarship winners are now working with state fishery agencies now that they have graduated, and not only do we look forward to seeing those ranks rise, but also the impact these young adults can have on fishing and conservation efforts in their respective states.”
Hyla notes the scholarships are for studies beginning in fall 2020, with up to 10 scholarships of $1,000 going to U.S. and Canadian high school seniors, college undergraduate and graduate students who are members of B.A.S.S., and majoring in biology, fisheries, wildlife or a natural resource-related field. Winners will be notified by July 1, with the award being made directly to the student for use as needed for tuition, textbooks or living expenses.
