Impact
How Scholarships Change Lives
Why community scholarships close the gap that federal aid leaves behind — and why the ripple effects last for decades.
Rise Above Poverty Scholarship CommitteeJan 14, 20264 min
Blog
Stories, guides, and practical advice
Original articles from the Rise Above Poverty team, written for East Mississippi students, families, and community supporters.
Latest articles
All posts
College Prep
A Practical Guide to Preparing for College
A grounded, step-by-step guide for East Mississippi students and families preparing for the college transition.
Rise Above Poverty Editorial TeamJan 21, 20264 min
Financial Aid
Financial Aid Tips Every Family Should Know
The FAFSA is only the beginning. Here's how to compare offers, ask for reconsideration, and avoid scams.
Rise Above Poverty Editorial TeamFeb 4, 20264 min
First-Gen
For First-Generation College Students: You Belong Here
Practical, honest advice for students who are the first in their family to attend college.
Rise Above Poverty Editorial TeamFeb 18, 20264 min
Career
Career Planning That Starts With Values
Titles change; values are stable. A career-planning approach that lasts a lifetime.
Rise Above Poverty Editorial TeamMar 3, 20264 min
Leadership
Building Leadership Skills as a Student
Leadership is a habit, not a title. Practical ways to grow starting today.
Rise Above Poverty Scholarship CommitteeMar 17, 20264 min
Study Skills
Study Skills That Actually Work
Active recall, spaced practice, and sleep — the study science that beats highlighting every time.
Rise Above Poverty Editorial TeamApr 1, 20264 min
Financial Literacy
Budgeting for Students Without the Stress
A simple starting framework for tracking spending, saving something monthly, and avoiding predatory debt.
Rise Above Poverty Programs TeamApr 14, 20264 min
College Prep
A Simple College Application Guide
How to build a smart college list, master the Common App, and write essays that sound like you.
Rise Above Poverty Programs TeamApr 28, 20264 min
Community
The Case for Volunteering as a Student
Why volunteer work builds you as much as it serves your community.
Rise Above Poverty Editorial TeamMay 12, 20264 min
Community
Local Community Support in East Mississippi
Where to turn when a family needs help, and how to help the neighbors who need it.
Rise Above Poverty Scholarship CommitteeMay 26, 20264 min
Impact
How Education Reduces Poverty
Why education is the most reliable long-term investment against poverty — and what it takes.
Rise Above Poverty Programs TeamJun 9, 20264 min
Impact
Giving Back After Your Scholarship
How alumni multiply the impact of a scholarship by mentoring the next generation of students.
Rise Above Poverty Scholarship CommitteeJun 23, 20264 min
Career
Interview Tips for Students
Preparation beats charisma every time. The STAR framework and the questions to always ask.
Rise Above Poverty Scholarship CommitteeJul 7, 20264 min
Personal Growth
Building Confidence, One Commitment at a Time
Confidence is a byproduct of kept promises to yourself. Here's how to start.
Rise Above Poverty Programs TeamJul 21, 20264 min