As time approaches for you to begin preparing for college, you will probably begin filling out college scholarship applications. There are a few things that you can do to ensure that your application grabs the eye of the people rating it.
Before you actually fill out an application, begin by doing some preplanning. Most scholarships ask for references. You need to think about who you would like and trust to write a letter of recommendation for you. As many people today have much to do, ask early so that you have the letters in advance of actually needing them. Some of the people that make good references are your minister, youth pastor, teachers, scout leaders, counselors and job managers. Do not ask family members. Also, be sure that the person is able to write a well- thought out, error free letter.
The next step is to gather the necessary documents you will need to fill out the applications of your choice. You will need letters of recommendation, prior schooling history and records, community and volunteer service and any other affiliations you might have. Scholarship committees don’t only look to your grades. Oftentimes they are interested in the whole person. Schools want good citizens as well as good students. Also, before you start, make several copies of the application just in case you make some errors. Make a calendar that shows when each application is due. You do not want to miss out on an opportunity because you have missed the deadline.
Now that you are ready to begin filling out the college applications, read the directions. Provide all that is asked of you but nothing more. One of the number one complaints of scholarship awarding committees is that the applicants do not follow the directions. If the application asks that you send references in sealed envelopes, then do so. If it asks that you provide names and addresses of former teachers, do so.
If the application includes a place for you to pay for essay reddit list your volunteer activities, be specific. For example, don’t say, “I helped at the local blood drive.” Rather give the details of what you did, “I coordinated forty volunteers for a blood drive that lasted 2 days.” “I oversaw the operation of the church nursery which included ten children and five volunteers for two years.” This gives the scholarship committee a clear picture of how your activities helped you to grow as a person.
If you are asked why you should have the scholarship, focus on how a college education can help you grow as a person and as a contributing member of society. You will also want to emphasize what you believe is the importance of a well-rounded individual. Also, state how you will use the benefits that a college education will provide you. Thank the committee for considering your application as well.
