100 Toyota Community Scholars are chosen from around the country. Of these 100, 12 receive national scholarships ($20,000) and 88 receive regional scholarships ($10,000). All 100 are recognized at a three day gathering in the Seelbach Hilton situated in Louisville, Kentucky.

The selection process is somewhat different for the Toyota Community Scholars program. High schools receive application materials during September (check with your high school - if it doesn't receive anything, make sure to request the materials from the Scholars program). Each high school can only nominate one student to be considered for selection as a Toyota Community Scholar. If you have a strong academic record and have demonstrated concern for the community through some tangible activity, then you should have a great shot at being nominated. Nonetheless, be proactive and bring up the subject to your counselor or whoever is in charge of scholarship programs.

Once you receive the nomination and submit the preliminary forms (due in December), you will be notified of the next round (the semi-finalist round) in February. The forms become more extensive and you will have the opportunity to fill out the standard information including activities, academics, and *especially important* community contributions.

In April, you will hopefully receive a thick package from FedEx or some other mail carrier that will bring a smile to your face at an already happy time in your senior year. Enclosed in the package are instructions and invitations to the grand event in Louisville Kentucky during May. National and regional winners will be announced there but either way you will be guaranteed a great time and at least $10,000.