Back for another year, the #MakeMercyReal TikTok Challenge will award up to $1 million in full-ride scholarships to prospective first-year students
"I shared something personal because I believe mercy is shown through simple everyday actions"
Messalonskee High School
Thornton Academy
“This challenge was an amazing opportunity to share something so meaningful in my life”
Film a short, authentic video showcasing an everyday act of mercy or compassion in action
Post your video with hashtag #MakeMercyReal and tag our TikTok @saintjoesmaine
We offer many easy ways to apply here and they're all free and fast so don't wait!
The challenge features two entry windows
Eligibility: Open to new, first-year students who have submitted an application and been accepted
More winners announced in Spring
First winner announced in October
We’re looking for videos that light up the feed with pure heart like the example to the left!
Create a short TikTok video (15–30 seconds) capturing a genuine, daily moment where you embody compassion (understanding a need) and action (doing something to help).
We'll choose winners based on the creativity, real-world impact, and everyday authenticity shown in their stories.
We're looking for students who make the world better through everyday acts of kindness, compassion, and service.
Whether you're helping a classmate, volunteering in your community, supporting your family, or simply making someone's day a little brighter, we want to see what mercy looks like through your eyes.
@adrianapettengil08 Giving back to those who give to you. #MakeMercyReal #familyfirst #kindnessmatters @Saint Josephs College of Maine ♬ original sound - noahksticks
We’re looking for videos that light up the feed with pure heart like the example from a prior year below!
We'll choose winners based on the creativity, real-world impact, and authenticity shown in the video.
Whether you're helping a classmate, volunteering in your community, supporting your family, or simply making someone's day a little brighter, we want to see what mercy looks like through your eyes.
Source: Niche.com (June 2026) Median Earnings and Average Costs
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