What is a better and faster way to find scholarships for youself?
As im approaching the end of my high school years, ive been trying to get opportunities to find scholarships but it seems to be very hard. As student who has a low income it is important for me to be able to get as many scholarships as I cant get. I woukd appreciate to have some suggestions in the best way of doing this.
#scholarships #financial-aid #college #financial-planning
3 answers
Jordan Rivera
CareerVillage.org Team COACHJordan’s Answer, CareerVillage.org Team
Great question Mcdhellyne. I'm sorry no one's answered it yet! Have you tried websites online to quickly find and apply for scholarships? I thought I'd share a few links to other relevant Q&A on CareerVillage.org that should be super helpful for you to read through in regards to scholarships. I've included tips in the "next steps" section below a list of trustworthy sites you should create accounts on if you haven't already (that have good scholarships!). Here are tips that could help you in your preparation of finding and submitting for scholarships:
- Dedicate a minimum of 1 hour a day for a few weeks to applying for scholarships and it'll go a long way.
- Be thoughtful about your entries, just doing the bare minimum isn't going to land you any scholarships. It's better to spend more time on each entry to ensure it's well thought out than to rush through to try to enter a bunch. Quality over quantity!!
- I recommend writing one STELLAR essay. Chances are you'll use it for every scholarship application (potentially only having to make minor edits dependent on what the prompt is). Tell a story that clearly represents who you are and what's important to you. The goal of the essay should be to let the reader in to your life. If you can do that in a genuine and meaningful way you'll be considered, I promise! A couple of ideas: Write about the hardest thing you've had to go through in your life or what makes you so passionate about something. Be sure to include lessons you've learned and what you hope to do with that knowledge/experience later in life.
- Spend more time finding scholarships that directly pertain to YOU so it cuts down the competition. Look for scholarships in your local community, or that are just for young women, for example. Know what career path you want to pursue? There are probably dozens of scholarship opportunities that are only for students aspiring to follow a specific career path (e.g. STEM, entertainment, sports, design, etc. etc.)
Relevant Q&A on CareerVillage.org you should read:
What financial support can I find to help me pay for college?
How to stand out when applying for scholarships?
What are the chances of winning scholarships?
Jordan, CareerVillage.org Team recommends the following next steps:
Violetta’s Answer
Samay’s Answer
Create a plan for writing all the essays, it will be tough doing all the regular applications and on top if it having the scholarship essays, contents, etc. Prioritize the ones you care about most and spend lots of time editing, reviewing, asking for help, and refining these essays before submitting. Be true to yourself and your experiences--most of these scholarships are looking for authenticity and how you can help their school just as much as they can help you. Don't be afraid to call/contact the schools for questions you may have.
Good luck!