Birthplace of a Nation Scholarship

At The Leiva Law Firm, we believe in honoring the legacy of our home state while supporting the leaders of tomorrow. Virginia is often recognized as “The Birthplace of a Nation,” a title that speaks to the foundational role it has played in shaping the ideals and identity of the United States. With this in mind, we are proud to announce The Birthplace Of A Nation Scholarship, an opportunity to reflect on our nation’s origins and imagine the path ahead.

This $1,000 scholarship invites students to explore how the vision of America’s early settlers evolved over time. We are particularly interested in hearing from first-generation Americans whose parents are immigrants, as their unique perspectives offer a powerful lens through which to view our nation’s foundational journey and its ongoing evolution. In a 750–1000 word essay, applicants will analyze how the country has grown from its foundational values and share their thoughts on how it may continue to progress based on those original ideals. We’re looking for thoughtful, forward-thinking perspectives that bridge the past and the future.

We’ve built our practice on justice, service, and community. This scholarship is one more way we aim to give back by encouraging students across the nation to engage critically with history and contribute their voices to the ongoing American story.

Eligibility

• To be considered for The Birthplace Of A Nation Scholarship, applicants must be current students enrolled in a vocational program or a two- to four-year college or university. This includes high school seniors, college undergraduates, graduate students, and vocational students who are legal residents of the United States, residing in any of the 50 states or Washington, D.C.
• Please note that employees of The Leiva Law Firm, their immediate family members (spouse, parents, children, and siblings), as well as individuals living in the same household (related or not), are not eligible to apply.
• Candidates for this scholarship must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in good academic standing overall.
• Candidates must be the children of immigrant parent(s) to be considered

Application Requirements

• The candidate must submit a 750-1,000 word essay response to the prompt: Virginia is known as “The Birthplace of a Nation” for its central role in early American history. Reflecting on that legacy, how do you believe the United States has grown from the original vision of its early settlers? Explore how those foundational ideals have evolved over time, and share your perspective on how the nation will continue to grow socially, politically, or culturally, based on that vision.
• Please note that all essays will be checked for AI writing. If AI writing is deemed present in the essay, the application will be denied.
• The candidate must submit a professional resumé that lists their experience, both professional and academic.
• The candidate must submit a transcript from their current school. First-year college students, graduate students, or individuals who have recently transferred to a new school may submit an unofficial transcript from their current institution, as well as the most recent official transcript from their previous school. High school students can submit proof of acceptance to their college or university.
• Preference will be given to students either from or attending secondary school in the state.