Lauren Behnk and Jackie Olivan, seniors at Clearwater Public Schools, have been named recipients of the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation scholarship.

Funds can be applied to any part of a student's cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, books, room and board, personal expenses and transportation, at any eligible Nebraska public institution.

Scholarships are renewal every year for up to five years at a four-year college, up to three years at a two-year college or until graduation, whichever comes first, according to the Buffett Foundation.

Behnk said applying for the scholarship was a lengthy process.

Two recommendations were required, along with answers to five prompts.

"It is truly an amazing financial resource," Behnk said.

One of the big draws for Behnk is the option to use the funds for summer classes or study abroad program.

"I would like to take advantage of a study abroad program in Spain or another Spanish-speaking country," she said.