Applying to colleges can be stressful, especially when you want to get a scholarship. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, so let’s take a look at the best ways to get a college scholarship.
The first step is to apply for as many college scholarships as you can. Some people get caught up in thinking that only one scholarship will be enough. This is misleading, though.
People who apply for scholarships will sometimes receive smaller amounts of money than they hoped for. However, if you get small amounts of money from several different scholarships, this can add up.
If you’re a high school student, there are plenty of places to connect you to people that can help. Here are the best places to begin your search:
- Library and Bookstores
- Friends and Family
- Cultural Organizations
- Career Centers
Letters of Recommendation
When applying for scholarships, you will almost always be asked to supply a letter of recommendation. These are letters written by teachers, coaches, or other people who can speak on your abilities.
It can be difficult to ask people to write you a letter of recommendation, but don’t let this stop you. Pick someone who you are comfortable with and will write you a strong letter.
Colleges receive thousands of scholarship applications, so the competition is tough. When two students have similar grades in school, their letters of recommendation can be the difference.
Be sure whoever writes your letter of recommendation highlights all of your accomplishments and skills. The better they describe you as a student and person, the stronger the letter will be.
Writing An Essay
Along with letters of recommendation, you will be asked to write an essay when applying for a scholarship.
This is your chance to stand out from the crowd — Remember, you are just one of thousands of people hoping to get in.
The best way to separate yourself from the pack and catch their attention is to be unique. Your essay should focus on what makes you different from the average student.
Keep in mind that the person reading your essay will be reading tons of similar essays. Try to avoid sounding like just another average person.
This can take on many different forms. Go with your instinct when writing the essay. You have a unique set of skills and personality that many colleges would love to have. Find what those are and highlight them.
