The Different Drummer Scholarship

In 2005 Manitou Springs Real Estate sponsored The Different Drummer Scholarship in appreciation of Mr. Thoreau’s thought

If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.

~ Henry David Thoreau, From Walden.

The idea of the scholarship is born out of one of our agents’ experience in an education system that overlooked those with talent in non-traditional, non-academic ways.

Therefore, The Different Drummer Scholarship is a one-time $1000 gift intended for two graduating Manitou Springs resident seniors. We award the scholarship each year to someone with a particular passion not fitting the “typical” scholarship profile. For example, it is awarded to a student with a unique dream, goal, or passion. The student should exhibit focus and ambition toward meeting that goal or fulfilling that dream or passion.
The scholarship can be used for anything that helps the student accomplish this. This could be college or trade school expenses, private tutoring, special lessons, books, supplies, equipment, tools, or anything else that legitimately helps reach the goal. Each scholarship is customized to the recipient. No preference is given based upon gender, religion, race, handicap, family status, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. Preference is given to applicants with less financial resources at their disposal who might not otherwise receive a scholarship.

The Different Drummer Scholarship Application Form

Criteria: NO GPA, transcript, class ranking, school activities, club memberships, or school offices held is considered in the application. Application Packet must include:

  • An essay explaining what the student’s passion is and how he/she proposes to use the scholarship.
  • In addition, the student must submit a work of art, a song, a video, project, or in some other way, give an example of his/her passion.
  • Two reference letters must be submitted; one from a teacher and one from someone else who is significant in the applicant’s life (but not a teacher).
  • A completed application form with contact information. Note: we may request an informal personal interview with the applicant.

Scholarship Award: The scholarship recipient’s name is published at the annual graduation ceremony and at least part of the money is awarded on or before the first day of September following graduation. Each scholarship is unique, therefore the disbursement is tailored to each recipient’s needs.

Applications are due April 28, 2023

If you wish to apply for this scholarship, please fill out the application form and submit it (along with the supporting documentation) to Manitou Springs Real Estate, 727 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829; or fax to 719-685-3383; or email to info@manitousprings.com.
If you have questions, please call Manitou Springs Real Estate 719-685-0220.

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