Jan. 22, 2024

This paid piece is sponsored by POET.

As the new year unfolds, aspiring innovators, trailblazers and dreamers are invited to apply for the POET Never Satisfied Scholarship program.

Since its establishment in 2016, the program consistently has expanded its reach, gaining popularity among various universities across the country. This year, the program not only is continuing its legacy but also growing in scope to include three additional scholarships, meaning 15 scholarships valued at $5,000 will be awarded.

The application period for the 2024 POET Never Satisfied Scholarship program opened at the beginning of January, providing a platform for talented students to showcase their ambition and commitment to making a difference. POET scholarships aim to provide financial support and opportunities for students enrolled in any two- or four-year post-secondary school for the upcoming fall semester.

“This program was founded to support students who share POET’s ‘never satisfied’ mentality,” said Autumn Bates, vice president of communications. “We want to recognize and support the bright young minds of today who are using their talents and aspirations to create a better world.”

There are no major or GPA requirements to apply, and the application consists of three short essay questions with an option to include a video attachment. POET receives thousands of applications each year, but only a few dozen finalists are selected to interview with a POET panel before the 15 scholarship recipients are chosen.

POET Never Satisfied Scholars don’t just receive $5,000 — they also have the chance to attend the POET Never Satisfied Summit, an exclusive networking event hosted for scholars and interns at POET headquarters in Sioux Falls, and receive hands-on networking and learning opportunities with POET professionals in their fields of interest.

“These students are the next generation of leaders. Like the team at POET, they see the world differently,” said Miranda Broin, director of strategic communications. “They already possess the talent, vision and passion they need to be successful — we’re just here to provide some of the resources necessary to help them reach their goals. Outside of the financial support, we also strive to build lasting relationships and serve as a resource for them long after they receive the scholarship.”

Past scholarship recipients have been in a wide range of degree programs and had varying career aspirations, with one defining trait in common: They are never satisfied with “good enough.”

“Having had the pleasure of serving on our scholarship committee for several years, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with hundreds of young people who are already working to innovate solutions to global problems and aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo,” Broin said. “We’re continuously blown away by the potential we see in our scholars, and we’re very much looking forward to selecting the Never Satisfied Class of 2024.”

The application is open through Feb. 12. To apply, visit poet.com/neversatisfied.