Southwest Georgia Farm Credit will provide $8,000 in scholarship money to selected high school students in the association’s 21-county territory, it was announced Wednesday at Bainbridge High School.

Four $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing a career path in the agriculture industry. This career path can range from business to accounting, agriculture sciences, animal biology, chemistry, communications, finance, etc.

Richard Monson, chief executive officer at Southwest Georgia Farm Credit said in a news release, “We are pleased to be able to support students who have a strong interest in agriculture. We hope these scholarships go a long way toward helping agriculture thrive in our small towns and communities for years to come.”

The four scholarship will be awarded to students who show a record of scholastic achievement and who, through their extracurricular activities, exemplify community spirit. High school seniors pursuing either a two- or four-year degree may apply.

Applicants must complete the scholarship application, provide a high school transcript showing grades, GPA and class rank.

One essay will be required on the topic: “My Future: How I Plan to Strive for Excellence.”

In addition, applicants will be required to provide two letters of recommendation from someone other than an immediate member of their family.

Scholarship winners will be chosen based on overall achievement and accomplishments.

Application deadline is March 1, 2011. The scholarship recipients are scheduled to be announced on March 15.

Students can visit SWGAFarmCredit.com for an application and additional information, or contact their high school guidance office.