FAQs

Can I use this scholarship at my acting studio of choice? The application has a list of acting studios that are eligible for this scholarship. You will choose one when you complete your application. 

Can I split the scholarship between multiple studios or change my studio selection choice? No, when applicants submit their application, they need to select a studio. Scholarship recipients must use the scholarship at the studio they selected on their application. No exceptions.

How do I prove I meet the eligibility requirements if I am selected? With your DD-214 and a photo ID. 

I am not comfortable submitting my photo ID and DD-214 to the scholarship sponsor to prove my eligibility, as they are a private citizen and not a business or non-profit. If I am chosen as a recipient, what are my options to prove my eligibility? The scholarship sponsor 100% understands the hesitation to submit these documents to a private citizen. Therefore, she has made arrangements with a couple of the studios so that recipients can show these documents to the studio personnel in person for verification. Ms. Chrystel Contreras, the scholarship sponsor, has given the studios instructions on what information to verify on the DD-214 and to verify name/age on the photo ID. If the studio will not provide this service, the recipient will meet with the scholarship sponsor via Zoom to show her their documents. 

Can I only use the scholarship for one class? No, recipients can use their scholarship for as many classes as $600 will cover. 

What if I have a balance after the $600 has been applied to class payment? Recipients are responsible for any balance owed to the studio once their $600 scholarship has been depleted. 

What if I have a General Under Honorable discharge? Can I still submit? No, applicants must have an Honorable discharge. No exceptions. 

I will turn 21 in 2025. Can I still apply? Yes, if an applicant’s 21st birthday will occur in 2025, they can apply. 

Can I apply if I don’t have 4 years of active-duty service? For example, would 3 years of active duty and 1+ years of reserve duty qualify? No, applicants must have 4 years of active-duty service. No exceptions. 

Are a resume and headshot mandatory to apply? Yes, both are mandatory. An actor seriously pursuing an acting career should have both of these items. 

Are a website, reel, and/or IMDb page needed to apply? No, but applicants are welcome and encouraged to share them if they have them. 

Is this scholarship sponsored by a business, non-profit, or foundation? No, this scholarship is sponsored by a fellow aspiring actor and US Navy Veteran out of her personal funds. 

How are the winners chosen? The scholarship is merit based. Recipients will be selected based on required submission materials (application, headshot, and resume). If needed, optional information submitted (website, reel, IMDb page) may be used to help pick the recipients. Do not contact the sponsor directly with unsolicited information. Doing so will result in immediate disqualification. 

Who is selecting the scholarship recipients? The scholarship sponsor, Ms. Chrystel Contreras, will select the recipients. If she is having a tough time selecting the recipients, she will consult with the scholarship’s namesake, Mr. Sylvester Wiggins, to help select the recipients. 

When will the recipients be announced and how will they be notified? Recipients will be announced on 04/28/2025 via email. They will also be announced on the sponsor’s website.

How will I receive my scholarship funds? You will either receive a gift card for $600 to the studio you selected, or payment arrangements will be made directly between the studio and the scholarship sponsor when you enroll in classes. It will depend on the studio. 

Can I use this scholarship for my children? Yes, if it is your child that is the actor in your family, you can use this scholarship for them. Of course, proof you are their parent or guardian will be required.