Cst. Robb Costello Scholarship

What you will need

• ✓ Enrollment in the Police Science program at Holland College’s Atlantic Police Academy
• ✓ An essay of 500-1000 words on the importance of de-escalation techniques in policing

About this award

You can receive one of two awards valued at $1,750 each. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are pursuing a career in law enforcement and feel a strong connection to the principles of community safety and conflict resolution. You must apply by November 1, 2026. When you apply, ask Holland College how and when you'll hear back — whether it is by email, the portal, or phone. Holland College lists this award's criteria on its official page (see Who qualifies). Ask Holland College how winners are picked among the students who meet them and how many usually apply, so you can judge your odds. Ask Holland College during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Holland College whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You must be enrolled in the Police Science program at Holland College’s Atlantic Police Academy. A preference is given to applicants who are mature students (those who have been out of high school for four years or longer) and who are a visible minority or female-identifying.

This is what the award's official page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm on the award's official page before you apply.

• ✓ Open to post-secondary students
• ✓ Studying Police Science

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's official page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Write your essay

   Be specific about what you did and what changed because of it. Proofread it twice.

3. 3

   Submit your application

   Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

• EssayAvoid writing a generic paper on policing. Instead, focus specifically on why de-escalation techniques are important for resolving conflict in the field. Use a real-world example to show you understand the concept.
• SupportAvoid submitting your essay without a second pair of eyes. Instead, ask a faculty member at the Atlantic Police Academy to review your draft for clarity and tone. This ensures your argument is professional.
• StrategyAvoid ignoring the personal history of the award. Instead, reflect on the legacy of Cst. Robb Costello and how his commitment to de-escalation matches your own goals as a future officer.

Questions students ask

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