The American Soybean Association (ASA) is offering a $5,000 scholarship to a high school senior interested in pursuing agriculture.

Students pursuing a degree in an agriculture field at an accredited college or university in 2017-18 are eligible to apply. The scholarship is made possible by a grant from BASF.   Online registration is Sept. 12 through November 21, 2016.

“ASA is thankful to once again partner with BASF and offer this opportunity to an exceptional student pursuing a career in ag,” said ASA President Richard Wilkins, Greenwood, Del. “It’s important to encourage young people who are interested in agriculture and provide them with tools to help them succeed.”

Lara Thompson was the ASA’s first Soy Scholarship recipient in 2008. She nows works as a cropping systems and agriculture technologies extension educator for the Nebraska Extension. Thompson credits the scholarship with helping her on her chosen career path.

“Receiving the SOY scholarship allowed me to focus on my studies and take advantage of opportunities, such as extracurricular activities, rather than having to worry about finances. Being able to attending the Commodity Classic was an added benefit,” Thompson said. “At the Commodity Classic I was exposed to many different aspects of agriculture and met many interesting people – this really broadened my horizons and enriched my understanding of agriculture.”

The scholarship is presented in $2,500 increments per semester. The student must be a child or grandchild of a current state affiliate and ASA member, maintain successful academic progress and be in good standing with the college or university to receive the full amount of the scholarship.

Final selection will be made the first week of December during the ASA Board meeting. The student will be notified prior to an official announcement made during Commodity Classic in San Antonio, Texas the week of March 2-4, 2017.

“BASF, like ASA, is excited to support and help prepare the next generation of agriculture professionals,” said Neil Bentley, director of marketing, US Crop, BASF. “This scholarship program is a way to reward students interested in our industry and excel in their studies.”