Joseph Thompson of Sycamore, a 2012 graduate of Sycamore High School, has received a $2,500 scholarship from the Financial Service Centers of America (FiSCA), the national trade association representing the financial service industry. Joseph will attend Brown University in the fall.

The competition was intense, with 1,450 high school seniors applying for the scholarships. All applications undergo a rigorous review process, first being ranked by a regional then a national review committee. The criteria for the scholarships include commitment to community service, perseverance in the face of significant obstacles, display of leadership skills in school, academic achievement and an essay.

“This is an important time to support students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Sanford Herman, Chairman of the FiSCA Scholarship Program. “Our industry leaders understand that investing in America’s future is in everyone’s best interests.”