They gave my daughter’s scholarship away!

Category: Entertainment Published on Wednesday, 10 March 2010 10:28 Written by Gwendolyn Baines Hits: 862

For the past four years my daughter has been the top scorer of her high school basketball team. I just learned the scholarship that was supposed to be awarded to her has been given to another girl whose scores do not come close to my daughter’s.

My husband was laid off from his job two years ago and my salary is less than $30,000 per year. Receiving a scholarship for basketball is the only way our daughter can attend college. It is so unfair. What can we do?—Gloria

Dear Gloria:

You are wrong in your thinking. Scholarship awards (like job promotions) can get downright ugly. That’s why it is important to strive to achieve a high grade point average (GPA). Seek financial assistance in the form of a grant or a student loan. Many potential athletes (and even the professional players) are injured and within minutes their career is ended. It is wise to have knowledge and not totally depend on making a living by running up and down a court. There are careers that start at six figures. First lady Michelle Obama is proof of that.

Gloria, parents often make the mistake of trying to send their child to a top ranked university where they cannot afford. It doesn’t matter where she goes—just go, and achieve a degree. Think about it. Not receiving the scholarship is the beginning of your daughter’s adult experience that extends throughout life—-disappointments.

(Do you have a son or grandson age 10-17? Help him to choose college not jail. Order “DECISIONS In The Life Of A Growing Male Youth.” For ordering information write to Gwendolyn Baines at: P.O. Box 10066, Raleigh, N.C. 27605-0066 (to receive a reply send a self-addressed stamped envelope) or e-mail her at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit her website at: www.gwenbaines.com.)