By tamaraFebruary has always been one of my favorite months; I get to celebrate my birthday, wedding anniversary and Valentine’s Day all in the same week, which means tons of presents and dinner out. It’s also the month when my favorite candy, conversation hearts, is available. Those sweet treats are so addicting, I’m just thankful that they aren’t available year-round. Although these things are cause enough for celebration, there’s another reason why I love February…Scholarships! Whether you are a high school student, college student, or currently working on your graduate degree, you can find a plethora of scholarship opportunities that are expiring this month. Don’t believe me? Check out these February scholarships that are due to expire soon. 1. The Point Foundation Scholarship This scholarship program is open to current undergraduate/graduate students who self-identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered. There are 28 scholarships available, valued up to $10,000 each. Deadline: February 10, 2013. 2. Ruth Stanton Community Grant Any U.S. student, who demonstrates a dedication to volunteer work, may apply for this award. One $500 grant will be offered. Deadline: February 14, 2013. 3. AFA Teens Essay Scholarship The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is offering one $5,000 scholarship to a high school junior or senior who submits an essay on the impact Alzheimer’s disease has on their lives and others in their family and/or community. Deadline: February 15, 2013. 4. Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship Current female college students, who are majoring in engineering, may be eligible for this scholarship. Seven $5,000 scholarships will be offered. Scholarships may be renewed for up to five years. Deadline: February 15, 2013. 5. Best Buy Scholarship Best Buy is offering 1,200 $1,000 scholarships to high school students who demonstrate a commitment to volunteer community service or work experience. Deadline: February 15, 2013. 6. ChairScholars National Scholarship Any U.S. high school senior or college freshman, who is physically disabled, may be eligible for this award. Scholarships are valued between $1,000 and $5,000 and are renewable. Deadline: February 15, 2013. 7. Christophers Poster Contest International and U.S. students in grades nine through twelve may enter this contest. Applicants must submit a poster that illustrates the idea that one person can make a difference. Eight prizes are available, ranging between $100 and $1,000 each. Deadline: February 18, 2013. 8. Scholarship for Military Children The Defense Commissary Agency will be awarding approximately 500 renewable scholarships, valued at $1,500 each, to current undergraduate students. Applicants must be a dependent child of an active duty, reserve/guard, or a retired military member. Deadline: February 24, 2013. 9. Lowe’s Scholarship The Lowe’s Scholarship is open to all U.S. high school seniors who have a grade point average of 3.25 or higher. A total of 140 scholarships, valued at $2,500 each, will be awarded. Deadline: February 28, 2013. 10. Next Big Thing Scholarship Any U.S. student, 13 years and older, is eligible to apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit a short essay (250 words or less) on the following topic: “If you could create the “next big thing” what would it be, what would it do, and why is it needed?” Deadline: February 28, 2013. Don’t forget to check with your guidance counselor, financial aid department and local businesses to see what other scholarships might be available to you. Another great resource is ScholarshipExperts.com. It’s free and easy to use. Register for your free account today and see what awards are waiting for you!