R.D. Bennett Scholarship Each year, winners of the Washington Youth Tour contest are qualified to compete for the Robert D. Bennett Scholarship through The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina (ECSC). A one-time check in the amount of $2,500 will be issued to the student and the college, university, trade or tech school of the winning student's choice, after the registrar's office completes the proper paperwork. The scholarship money may be requested up to three years after the winner is named. To compete for the scholarship, each Washington Youth Tour winner must submit an essay. Competition is based on the essays and participation during the trip. Trip chaperones will judge the essays. S.A.T scores, grade point averages, class standing, and other honors will not be considered. Students selected to attend the Washington Youth Tour will receive information which includes essay requirements and suggested topics. The essays must not exceed 1,000 words and must be typewritten and double-spaced. Students may use publications from Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina (ECSC) and the student’s sponsor-cooperative, web sites, and personal interviews as sources. The winner will be announced following the Tour. Click here for more information on the Washington Youth Tour.