Apply by April 15 for CMH scholarships

Qualified area students are encouraged to apply by April 15 for one of the scholarships awarded by the Calvert Memorial Hospital Foundation. To obtain an application, call 410-535-8122 or download the scholarship form.

The CMH Foundation administers two scholarship programs. Since 1991, it has given 175 scholarships totaling $216,500. Recipients are not obligated to repay the foundation or accept employment at CMH.

The CMH Foundation scholarship fund was created by an endowment from the Calvert-Arundel Medical Center. It assists students pursuing an allied health degree. Applicants from Anne Arundel and Calvert counties receive preference during the selection process but students from Charles and St. Mary’s are also eligible.

A new scholarship created last year by the Sharon’s Way Benevolent Fund helps those studying to become a physician assistant. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited physician assistant curriculum. It is limited to students from Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties.

“More and more students are interested in pursuing health careers,” said Carrie Forrest, vice president for human resources at CMH, “because of the advantages these jobs offer – including competitive salaries, generous benefits, flexibility and continued growth.”

She encourages anyone who is interested in learning more about health care to sign up for job shadowing or volunteering. Job shadowing allows students 16 and older to spend time with an experienced healthcare professional in their chosen field of interest. For information, call 410-414-4865.

Volunteering is another way students can find out more about their options. To participate, students must be 16 and older, complete an orientation program and commit to four hours per week. For information, call 410-535-8373.

“Often their volunteer experience helps them decide on a major,” said Kasia Sweeney, director of public relations and marketing at CMH. “It’s also a good way for them to gain valuable experience.”