Oleg Fastovsky Outstanding Citizen Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Price Benowitz

Since the inception of our firm, our dedicated team has been committed to serving our community. We have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals, each with their own unique and inspiring stories. The Outstanding Citizen Scholarship and Essay Contest is our way of supporting those who have shown exceptional dedication to their communities and causes. For the 7th consecutive year, we are delighted to facilitate this conversation about the importance of good citizenship. We are honored to provide educational opportunities to those who exemplify exceptional citizenship. This essay competition, along with the accompanying $1,000 scholarship, is open to individuals across the U.S. who will be enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Who Can Apply?

• Applicants must be currently enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited post-secondary program by Fall 2025. This includes community colleges, private or public undergraduate colleges and universities, private or public graduate degree programs, law programs, and business programs. If the winner of the essay contest cannot provide proof of enrollment at the time of scholarship disbursement, a new winner will be chosen.
• Employees of Maryland Criminal Defense Group, their immediate family members (parents, children, siblings, and spouses), and individuals living in the same household (whether related or not) are not eligible to enter the contest.
• Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in good academic standing overall.
• Applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to citizenship, as evidenced by their essay and resume.

How to Apply

• Applicants must complete the form below, providing all required information.
• Applicants must submit an essay of 500-1,000 words in response to the following prompt: What is one of the most important ways an individual can serve their community, and how have you served your community in this way?
• Please be aware that all essays will be checked for AI writing. If AI writing is detected in the essay, the application will be rejected.
• Applicants must submit an updated resume that includes academic, professional, and volunteer experiences with a focus on community service and citizenship.
• Applicants must provide a current official academic transcript showing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. (Note: If an official transcript from the current institution is not available, applicants may submit an unofficial transcript from their current institution and an official transcript from their previous institution.)
• Preference will be given to students who are from or attending secondary school in the state.

The winner of the Outstanding Citizen Scholarship will be announced in the month following the scholarship deadline of September 30, 2025.