Hey bestie!
Let's first start by debunking some scholarship myths:
"Scholarships are only for high school students"
There are several scholarships that are open, especially for students already in college (freshman-seniors and even transfer students)
"Scholarships must be paid back"
No, scholarships do not have to be paid back. Only apply to REAL scholarships, you should never find yourself having to pay a fee or money to apply.
"There are no scholarships available for undocumented students"
Although it may be hard to find scholarships for DACA and undocumented students, it is not impossible! More scholarships are being released to help give students an opportunity at education.
Now that we have debunked some myths, let's talk about scholarships. College is expensive. But that does not necessarily mean you can't find the means to pay for it. According to an alarming study, the top reason why college students drop out (42%) is financial reasons (UPCEA). Scholarships are something that people take for granted. If you do not look for it and apply for it, you lose the opportunity to have your college tuition paid. People often blame their luck for not being able to "win" scholarships, but what if I told you that it is a matter of finding the right scholarship and dedicating time for it. In this blog, I give you 8 big tips for looking for reliable scholarships and having a better shot at earning money for your college degree. I was lucky enough to use a mix of these tips here to find scholarships that paid for me to attend college, I hope that these help you as well!
Tip 1: From Small (local) to Big (statewide)
Sometimes applying for multiple scholarships can become overwhelming. Starting with smaller and local scholarships can allow you to find opportunities that others miss when honing on the statewide scholarships. Start by looking at scholarships in your state, at that specific university of interest, and even at your favorite places (Taco Bell, Suns, Dell, etc.). During this time, also apply for the big scholarships too (McDonalds, Coca Cola, Gates, etc.)!
Tip 2: Use relevant and unique keywords
Students often think that by typing in simply "scholarships'' they will find the best match. Although that is simple, it does not pull the best results for you. You see bestie, the best thing about scholarships is that there are so many that you can find one for just about anything. Let me give you some examples of keywords and phrases that I used as a first-generation student and Latina in business attending Arizona State University.
Keywords bestie used: Scholarships for first-generation students, scholarships for Hispanic students, scholarships for Arizona residents, scholarships for Arizona high school seniors, scholarships for women in business, scholarships for marketing majors, scholarships for underrepresented populations, scholarships for Arizona State University
Tip 3: Use the university, public libraries, and people as resources
The best thing about these types of scholarship websites is that they can lead you to many reliable scholarships and they are already picked out for you. I love searching for scholarships at the university of interest by searching up the university's name and then portal like so: Arizona State University Scholarship portal, they even have filters available for you, which makes it even better! .The same goes with local libraries. Lastly, asking people like your guidance counselor or a family member may help you also find scholarships that are not really heard of.
Tip 4: Find pages that allow you to apply for multiple scholarship awards online with one general application
Not all scholarships are offered like this but, if you search up one general application scholarship in your area, it may be an option! These scholarships are amazing since it automatically applies to many for you and you save so much time.
Tip 5: Have all the materials you need to complete a scholarship done early
Time management is important. One thing that you will learn in college is that time is money. Do everything early and do not ask for a letter of recommendation at the last minute, write your essays late or turn in an incomplete application, it just makes it look like you do not want the scholarship. Your application tells someone a lot about you.
Tip 6: Be personal and authentic
Do not lie on your paperwork or try to embellish things. Be true to yourself and your needs. Unique stories are the ones that stand out, inspire and stick after all!
Tip 7: Do not copy and paste the same essay for each scholarship
Instead, have a main story prompt to use for your essay and then switch it up to match the scholarship questions. My story was based on the hard work and sacrifices that my parents made for me and my siblings to attend school as first-generation students and the hardships/opportunities that I would face!
Tip 8: Always revise your application before submitting
Write in full sentences and take a quick glance. Do not forget to do a grammar check using Grammarly and other online tools that can help you sound more
professional!
Sincerely,
Your College Bestie
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