Scholarships are a great way to help pay for college. Some scholarships may be need-based, while others may be merit-based. Some may be specific to a certain field of study, while others may be open to any student who meets the minimum criteria. There are also many private scholarships available, provided by businesses or other organizations.
But did you know that there’s more to getting a scholarship than just winning one? In order to make sure you’re getting the most out of your college scholarship, there are a few things you need to do, according to the renowned educator Karen Corcoran Walsh.
Here are 5 steps to help you get the most out of your college scholarship:
Step One: Make Sure You’re Eligible
The first step is to make sure you’re actually eligible for the scholarship. This might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people apply for scholarships they don’t qualify for. So before you do anything else, read the eligibility requirements carefully and make sure you meet them all.
Step Two: Apply Early and Often
The second step is to apply early and often. The sooner you apply for scholarships, the better your chances of winning one. And don’t just stop at one application! The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of winning one (or more).
Step Three: Get Involved
Another great way to increase your chances of winning a scholarship is to get involved in extracurricular activities, both in and out of school. Scholarship committees love to see well-rounded applicants, so involvement in extracurriculars is a great way to make yourself stand out from the crowd.
Step Four: Do Your Research
When it comes time to actually fill out your scholarship applications, be sure to do your research. This means not only researching the scholarships themselves but also researching the companies or organizations offering the scholarships. This will give you a leg up when it comes time to write your essays and complete your applications.
Step Five: Follow-Up
The final step is perhaps the most important one: following up. After you’ve submitted your application, be sure to follow up with the scholarship committee to make sure they received everything they need. A simple phone call or email can go a long way in ensuring that your application isn’t lost in the shuffle.
A vital fact to consider
When applying for a scholarship, it’s important to put your best foot forward and showcase your strengths and accomplishments. Many students make the mistake of downplaying their achievements or failing to highlight what makes them stand out from other applicants.
Take some time to think about what makes you unique, and be sure to highlight those things in your application materials.
Parting note:
Whatever your situation, there is likely a scholarship out there that can help you finance your education. It is important to do your research and Find the ones that best fit your needs and goals. By following these 5 steps, you can be sure you’re getting the most out of your college scholarship—and that’s something everyone can benefit from!
