Biodiesel essay scholarship taking applications in Minnesota

The American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest is accepting applications for its 2012 Reuben Youngerberg Memorial Biodiesel Essay Scholarship. The scholarship is open to all high school seniors in Minnesota. According to information published by the ALA-UM, the award is given in memory of the father of Mike Youngerberg, senior director of field services at the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association. He is also a huge supporter of biodiesel.

The scholarship program is open to any Minnesota high school senior who plans to attended a postsecondary educational institution. Those who wish to apply are asked to write a 1,000-word essay on biodiesel. Entrants can pick their own topic. They can also choose one of three topics provided by the scholarship program, including biodiesel’s benefits to Minnesota, challenges and opportunities associated with expanding the use of biodiesel, and how the applicant can impact biodiesel use in his or her area.

According to the ALA-UM scholarship guidelines, entries will be judged using four sets of criteria, including the accuracy of the information cited in the essay. The applications are also expected to demonstrate a thorough understanding of biodiesel and its use. Creative thinking and original ideas, as well as spelling, grammar and punctuation will also be considered.

Two scholarships will be awarded under the program: $1,600 for first place, and $500 for second place. To be eligible, entries must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. on March 30. Winners will be notified by May 25.

According to the ALA-UM, the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council sponsors the annual scholarship program, with contributions from the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, MEG Corp., The National Biodiesel Board, and Renewable Energy Group Inc.

Additional information on the program and its requirements can be found on the ALA-UM website.