Advice from a Previous Scholarship Recipient

The BluCurrent Memorial Scholarship Program was established in 1994 to honor former elected officials, while also helping young members of the credit union pursue higher education. Since its inception, the college scholarship has awarded over $72,000 to over 46 graduating high school seniors, right here in the Ozarks.

We sat down with Scott Rose, our first ever scholarship recipient, to learn more about how the scholarship impacted his life & career. Scott currently serves as the Chairman of the BluCurrent Board of Directors, in addition to a successful career in real estate.

How were you introduced to the credit union?

I joined the credit union in 1985 when I was nine years old.  My Dad went to work for the Post Office and that was the first time I had ever heard of a credit union.

What high school did you attend?

Parkview High School in Springfield.

When did you win the scholarship?

In 1994. It was the first scholarship the credit union awarded.

What school did you attend with your scholarship?

I went to Missouri State University, which was called Southwest Missouri State University back then.  I studied Computer Information Systems.

What did it mean to you to win the scholarship?

It was a great honor and a huge blessing.  I know there were other great candidates that also applied.  I was fortunate to be able to live at home while attending college, so all the money went to pay for classes and books.

What are you doing now?

I have been a Realtor in the Springfield and surrounding areas for more than 20 years.  I am blessed to be one of the top producing Realtors in the area.  I served as President of the Greater Springfield Board of Realtors in 2007, member of Leadership Springfield Class 28, SBJ 40 under 40 (2002), member of Southeast Rotary for 13 years and I am also currently serving on the Board for CASA of Southwest Missouri. I have been married to my wife Rebekah for over 20 years and we have one son, Sam.

How are you involved with the credit union now?

I have served on the Board of Directors for the past eight years and have had the honor of serving as Chairman of the Board the last three years.

What does it mean to you to give back to the credit union that gave back to you?

I am so thankful that I have had the opportunity to give back.  I am a big believer in the credit union philosophy, “People Helping People”!  The scholarship was an investment in my education as well as me as a person. I hope that I can use the investment given to me when I was younger to give back to the credit union as well as other great service organizations in the community! 

What advice would you give applicants?

Be present while keeping an eye on the future.  Don’t let all the distractions keep you from focusing on what is important.  If you’re able to attend a college in your hometown, consider saving money by living at home (if possible).  I know it’s enticing to want to live on campus for the experience, but I am not a big fan of graduating college with large student loans! 

If you’re a high school senior interested in applying for a scholarship, we invite you to learn more about the 2021 BluCurrent Scholarship and apply today!