High School Senior Earns Scholarship, Donates College Savings to Help Other Students

Joshua Nelson, a senior at St. Charles West High School in Missouri, decided to pay it forward by donating over $1,000 of his college savings to another student after Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) selected Nelson for a SEMO’s President Scholarship.

“The MAC Scholars program seeks to provide opportunities for students to develop and sharpen the skills necessary to succeed in high school and beyond,” MAC’s website information explained.

Nelson is also a member of the varsity basketball team, huddle leader for the Fellow of Christian Athletes, and a member of the National Honor Society, National Society of Black Engineers, and Black Student Union. t Nelson, who wants to pursue a career in optometry, is an active community volunteer.

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The City of St. Charles’s School District explained that Nelson was one of five students selected to receive this year’s scholarship this year out of 100 applicants to make it to the interview round. The scholarship is worth approximately $43,000 over four years.

When the 18-year-old nabbed the scholarship, he decided to use his savings to help another student. Over the next few weeks, parents and teachers will help Nelson with his do-gooder mission. KSDK reported that Nelson will also accept applications for this special scholarship.

“I really thought it was important to give back to my community that poured in so much to me,” Nelson told KSDK. “Honestly, it makes me feel on top of the world. The fact that I can just help somebody a little bit makes me feel great and I really want to see other people succeed.”

A donation page has been set up for the Joshua Nelson Leaders In Action Scholarship. Nelson and the MAC leadership team are accepting financial donations to increase scholarships for graduating seniors. Individuals and companies are also encouraged to support youth by donating time, materials, supplies, or even experiences.