Social Security Disability Advocacy Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Schaffer & Associates LPA

The Schaffer & Associates Social Security Disability Advocacy Scholarship is a unique opportunity for students who are driven to enhance the Social Security Disability (SSD) system and champion the rights of individuals unable to work due to illness or injury. We understand the critical need to maintain the SSD benefits system as accessible, efficient, and fair for those who require it. Applicants are expected to delve into the role of SSD in aiding disabled individuals and suggest innovative, ethical strategies to fortify the system for future beneficiaries. By crafting a well-researched and persuasive essay, students will shed light on the real-world obstacles encountered by SSD recipients and propose practical solutions to improve the program. The most insightful and influential submission will receive a $1,000 award to further their educational pursuits. We are delighted to launch this initiative to foster a new wave of advocates for social justice and the disabled community. 

Who Can Apply?

• The Social Security Disability Advocacy Scholarship is available to current high school seniors, vocational students, college students, and graduate students who are legal U.S. residents living in any of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in a vocational program or a two- to four-year post-secondary institution.
• Employees of Schaffer & Associates and their immediate family members, including parents, children, siblings, and spouses, as well as individuals living in the same household, are not eligible to participate in this competition.
• Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be in good academic standing at their current institution.

How to Apply

• Applicants must complete the form below with all required information
• Applicants must submit an essay of 750 -1,000 words in response to the following prompt: Examine the role of Social Security Disability benefits in supporting individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury. Articulate your plans to enhance the Social Security Disability system, ensuring it remains accessible, efficient, and fair for all individuals in need. The scholarship will be awarded to the student who presents the most innovative and ethical strategy for advocating for disabled individuals, with the goal of strengthening the program for future generations.
  • Please be aware that all essays will be screened for AI writing. If AI writing is detected in the essay, the application will be disqualified.
• Applicants must submit a professional resumé detailing their experience, both professional and academic.
• Applicants must provide a transcript from their current school. First-year college students, graduate students, or individuals who have recently transferred schools may submit an unofficial transcript from their current school, along with the most recent official transcript from their previous school. High school students can submit proof of acceptance to their college or university.
• Preference will be given to students either from or attending secondary school in the state.