The deadline for students to apply for the 2025 Ruth Wickersham Papalia Scholarship Award is coming up on March 30th, 2025 (apply here). In preparation, we caught up with last year's recipient, Zora Evangeline Dickson, to see what the award has meant for her journey as a young harpist.
How has receiving the Ruth Wickersham Papalia Scholarship Award changed things for you as a student, a harpist, and an artist?
It has been such an honor to receive the Ruth Wickersham Papalia Scholarship Award! The video essay portion helped me to gain confidence in front of a camera. I felt seen when I was selected as the recipient because I talked about subjects that were so personal and important to me. I hope to continue conversations about how we can grow and strengthen our community and what we need to change in order to make this space more inclusive, and I am encouraged by the enthusiasm for this kind of work! I have gained confidence from the experience and been inspired as I work on my presentation for a future AHS conference. I am excited that I have the opportunity and creative freedom to put together a performance and presentation that is meaningful and I cannot wait to share it with the wonderful harp community.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying for the scholarship?
It is well worth it! I had fun putting together my application and I gain so much from recording myself. I would recommend giving yourself a lot of time for these, and for the video essay question as well! The speaking portion may sound daunting, but it really is an opportunity to be authentic, express your interests and passions, and give those who are receiving your application a chance to get to know you.
What has occupied your harp life over the last year, and what are you looking forward to?
In addition to continuing my harp performance degree, my harp life has been very full of traveling for orchestral performances, competitions, and auditions! I enjoy getting to work and connect with so many talented and creative artists and friends. I felt welcomed and valued in many of the new spaces I have entered and it brings me joy to make others feel the same. I look forward to upcoming chamber music and solo performances as well as preparing for a busy summer and final year of undergrad.
Thank you, Zora!
Apply for the award here before March 30th, 2025.
