SMYAL’s Sophie’s Live Out Loud Award (LOLA) is a $5,000 scholarship celebrating a bold and inspiring LGBTQ+ student leader beginning their post-secondary education. Named in honor of Sophie Magerl, a fearless young advocate for self-expression and empowerment, this scholarship supports students in the D.C. Metro area who are making a difference in their schools or communities and plan to continue their journey of impact and growth.
Scholarship Details
- $5,000 scholarship awarded to one LGBTQ+ student leader
- Named in honor of Sophie Magerl to recognize resilience, creativity, and community empowerment
- Supports first-time students entering post-secondary education in the coming Fall
- Scholarship winner will be featured publicly by SMYAL
Eligibility Criteria
- Identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community
- Be 24 years old or younger
- Be a high school graduate or GED recipient in the D.C. Metro Area*
- Be starting your first semester of college, university, or trade/technical school in the coming Fall
- *D.C. Metro Area includes D.C., and nearby parts of Maryland and Virginia
Application Process
- Write a personal essay (up to 1,500 words) addressing your journey as an LGBTQ+ leader, challenges you’ve overcome, your impact on your community, and future goals
- Obtain two letters of support from individuals who can speak to your leadership and impact
- Submit a list of programs you’ve applied to, and any acceptance letters received
- Ensure you are comfortable being publicly recognized, as winners will be featured
This is a powerful opportunity for LGBTQ+ students who are stepping into the next phase of their educational and activist journey. If you’re a young leader passionate about expressing yourself and supporting others, apply for the LOLA Scholarship and continue to live out loud with purpose and pride.