Women pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields will be receiving financial support.
The Virginia Council on Women is seeking entries for the eighth annual STEM Essay Contest.
High school juniors and seniors who participate will have an opportunity to win one of five $5,000 scholarship, according to a release.
“It is critical that we prepare all Virginia students to succeed in fields like science, technology, engineering, and math, and this annual contest is a great way to encourage more young women to explore their passions and pursue careers in these industries,” Governor Ralph Northam said in a release.
About $200,000 in scholarships have been awarded since the contest began in 2012.
Those interested in applying must identify as a woman, be a Virginia resident and have a 2.5 grade-point average (GPA).
The contest guidelines and application are available on the Commonwealth of Virginia website.
Submissions for the contest are due by 11:59 p.m. on February 22. Officials will reach out to the winners by March 21 and the scholarships will be presented at the Executive Mansion in Richmond in April 2019.
