Do high school seniors ever win the SMART scholarship?

Answers to various questions regarding the SMART Scholarship application process. Includes many tips and statistics.
peersoon1234

Do high school seniors ever win the SMART scholarship?

Post by peersoon1234 »

Hello,
I have been looking into applying to the SMART program, but I have seen people say that high school seniors rarely (if ever) get chosen. I would say that I am fairly competitive, with a 36 ACT, 10+ AP classes (with 5s on all of them but one), state-level awards in DECA and Science Olympiad, and some leadership in school clubs. This year, I am taking very rigorous classes as well, with more AP tests, and I will graduate with an IB diploma.
Can anyone tell me if I have a chance at the scholarship, or do I believe people who say that the Dellum award won't be given out, as colleges would have to pay for 3-4 years of college for someone with little work experience, vs. 1-2 years for someone graduating soon and with internships under their belt? Is it even worth writing the essay to apply?
Thank you in advance. Any advice is appreciated.