Golden Baton Scholarship Initiative
Empowering our youth through music, scholarship, and service
The Atlanta Alumni Association of Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma sponsors the Golden Baton Scholarship Initiative Program (GBSI) which is geared towards high school juniors in the Metro Atlanta area who are interested in participating in a collegiate marching band. GBSI participants are taken through a series of workshops that prepare them for college and participation in a collegiate marching band. Workshop series are conducted on college preparation (SAT/ACT, applications, financial aid, housing, scholarships), leadership, personal and professional development, musicality, and college life. Additionally, participants are taken on a college tour to assist in the college decision process. Participants work with mentors to ensure maximum success throughout the program. Each student presents an oratory piece and a musical selection at the GBSI Gala which is held at the conclusion of the program during their senior year. Upon completion of the program and acceptance into college each participant is awarded a general scholarship.
eligibility Requirements
In order to apply, the applicant must meet the below requirements:
- Be a current high school Junior
- Be an active participant in a high school band program
- Have Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.8 or higher
- Possess above-average leadership and musicianship
- Plan to participate in a collegiate band program upon graduation
- Be prepared to participate fully in the GBSI workshops, activities, and mentorship
Application Requirements
Items required for submission:
- Headshot and brief biography for publication (max 50 words)
- Description of leadership skills and experiences and how they have helped you as a student
- Explanation of how involvement in band has impacted your life
- Explanation of why you should be selected to participate in this selective program
- Letter of Recommendation from the Director of Bands, Assistant Director, or Auxilary Coordinator
- Letter of Recommendation from a Teacher, Counselor, Community/Religious Leader, Mentor, or other adult who can speak to your leadership and/or musicianship (cannot be a family member)
- Official School Transcript or Current Report Card with GPA (must be on school letterhead)
- Parent Permission Form (this form will be sent to your parents after your application is reviewed)
important dates
Important dates regarding the GBSI Scholarship Program:
- Application: Application and all required documents must be submitted by November 30, 2024 at 11:59 PM ET
- Interviews: Interviews will take place on January 11, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Notifications: Acceptance emails will be sent no later than January 25, 2025
- Orientation Session: A parent and student orientation session will take place on February 1, 2025 from 12:00 PM-12:30 PM
- GBSI Launch: The first GBSI session will begin immediately after the orientation session on February 1, 2025 from 12:45 PM-2:45 PM