Unlocking Opportunities: A Guide to the Luckyday Scholarship Program
The Luckyday Scholars Program, born from the vision of Frank Rogers Day and the Luckyday Foundation, offers substantial support and enriching experiences to Mississippi students pursuing higher education. Founded in 1978, the Luckyday Foundation's work has made the Scholars program possible. Beginning at the University of Mississippi in 2001, the program has expanded, nurturing each new group of students who become part of the Luckyday community. The Luckyday Residential College was dedicated in 2010, honoring Frank Rogers Day’s legacy of service and generosity. A statue of Mr. Day was unveiled in the archway of the Luckyday Residential College. This article delves into the requirements, benefits, and application process for this transformative scholarship.
The Luckyday Mission: Beyond Financial Aid
Beyond the financial assistance of up to $24,000 over four years, the Luckyday Scholars Program is designed to facilitate personal and professional development. The program emphasizes connection to a robust community of scholars, service experiences, and intentional leadership development. To date, thousands of Mississippi students have benefitted from the support offered through the Luckyday Scholars Program.
Luckyday Scholarship Options
The Luckyday Program offers opportunities for both incoming freshmen and community college transfer students. Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria.
Luckyday Scholarship for Incoming Freshmen
This scholarship awards $24,000 ($6,000 per year for four years) to 80 competitively selected first-time freshmen.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Residency: Applicants must be Mississippi residents.
- GPA: A minimum overall high school GPA of 3.5 is required.
- FAFSA: Applicants must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1.
- Good Standing: Maintain good standing with the program by meeting all scholarship requirements.
Luckyday Community College Transfer Scholarship
This scholarship provides $12,000 ($6,000 per year for two years) to 25 competitively selected community college transfer students.
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Eligibility Requirements:
- Residency: Applicants must be Mississippi residents.
- Credit Hours: Completion of a minimum of 48 college credit hours is necessary.
- GPA: A minimum 3.0 college GPA on all college credits is required.
- FAFSA: Completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid - FAFSA.
- Good Standing: Maintain good standing with the program by meeting all scholarship requirements.
Maintaining Good Standing: Program Requirements for Scholars
Once selected as a Luckyday Scholar, students must adhere to specific program requirements to maintain their scholarship.
- GPA Maintenance: Luckyday Scholars must maintain a 2.5 cumulative GPA on all course work attempted at the University of Mississippi. Luckyday Community College Transfer Scholarship recipients must maintain a 2.5 resident GPA on all coursework attempted at the University of Mississippi. If a Scholar falls below this requirement, they will be placed on probation for the following semester and routinely meet with program staff. The Luckyday Program administrators in their discretion may consider remaining financial need after the freshman year.
- Volunteer Service: Scholars must participate in at least 10 hours of volunteer service per semester.
- Meeting Attendance: Attendance at general semester meetings in the fall and spring is mandatory to learn about program opportunities related to leadership, service, and community connections.
- Course Enrollment: Scholars must enroll in Luckyday-specific sections of EDHE 105 (first year Scholars) or EDHE 305 (transfer Scholars) during the fall semester of their first year. These courses introduce students to campus resources and connect them with staff and faculty at the University of Mississippi. The courses also give students the opportunity to develop skills and understanding in the areas of leadership, service, and connection to their community.
- Residential Living: First-year Scholars live in the Luckyday Residential College during their first year. Living as part of a community allows students to build friendships and connect with other Luckyday Scholars during the first year. Upperclass student mentors also help new students navigate the transition from high school to college. Housing is required for Luckyday Scholars for the first year. The scholarship is not given for housing.
- Program Engagement: Students engage in numerous social and academic programs each semester, which aids students in their growth as leaders and members of a vibrant community.
Applying for the Luckyday Scholarship at USM
The Luckyday Scholars Program at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) awards up to $6,000 per year to eligible Mississippi high school seniors.
Eligibility Requirements for USM:
- Residency: Applicants must be Mississippi residents. Candidates’ parent(s) or custodial parent(s) must be Mississippi residents.
- GPA: A minimum 3.5 GPA is required. Candidates must be entering freshmen with a minimum 3.0 high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
- ACT Score: An ACT score of 20 or higher is required.
- Community Involvement: Successful applicants should also have a history of involvement in their community.
- Academic Rigor: Applicants should have challenged themselves academically while balancing varying responsibilities.
- Full-Time Enrollment: This scholarship is designated for full-time enrollment status only.
Application Process for USM:
- GO Application System: Students must complete the general application in the GO Application System.
- Counselor Report: Interested students must submit a Counselor Report (completed by their high school counselor).
Essay Component and References
The Luckyday Scholars Program application often includes essay questions designed to assess the applicant's character, values, and commitment to service.
Essay Prompts (Examples):
- Reflect on how you would continue to give to others during your time at Mississippi State University and as an engaged citizen after graduation, considering Frank Day's vision.
- Share a challenge you have faced, how it impacted you, what it taught you, and how it influenced your decisions for pursuing a college degree.
References of Support:
Applicants are typically required to request two references of support from individuals who can speak to their qualities as a servant-leader. The references should speak highly of the applicant's academics, follow-through, involvement in the classroom, and other areas of personal development. They should also provide detailed information about the applicant's character in servant-leadership and citizenship positions.
Key Considerations for Applicants
- Application Timing: Most scholarship programs, including Luckyday, accept applications a few months ahead of their annual deadline. Based on previous application cycles, we expect this scholarship to reopen in September 2026.
- Demonstrate Service and Leadership: Highlight your involvement in community service and leadership roles throughout your application.
- Craft a Compelling Essay: Use the essay as an opportunity to showcase your personality, values, and commitment to making a difference.
- Seek Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths as a student and a leader.
- Maintain Academic Excellence: Emphasize the importance of maintaining academic excellence while helping out your community.
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