Scholarship Tips for Seniors
By Paula Ketterman
August 26, 2009
1. General Scholarships will be listed in the Daily Bulletin as soon as they become available. There will be information regarding where to get an application. Most scholarships are found on-line and applications must be downloaded and printed or submitted electronically. You may access these scholarships at any time if you have internet access. If the scholarship requires a counselor signature, it must be given to Mrs. Ketterman two-three days in advance or YOU must mail it directly to the address indicated on the form well in advance of the due date.
2. I encourage you to apply for all scholarships that you feel you are both eligible and can qualify for. Please carefully consider the selection criteria. If you do not apply, you cannot receive it.
3. You always want to create a good impression with the scholarship selection committee with your application forms. Therefore, give careful attention to how you complete these forms. The following are some general guidelines:
a. BE NEAT!
b. Typing is always preferred unless otherwise specified. If you must write, do
so very neatly, and in black ink only.
c. Always fill in all spaces. If a question does not apply to your situation, you
may use "NA" to so indicate. If you leave the space blank, those reviewing
your application may wonder if you even considered the item.
d. Be honest
e. Plan what you want to write before you write on the application form.
4. You may find it helpful to develop a resume of your high school activities, awards, etc., so that you don�t have to redevelop this information every time you complete an application form. You should have this in your Faculty Advisor Folder.
5. If you ask someone (a teacher, principal, counselor, etc.) to write a letter of recommendation for you, always provide that person with a copy of your high school activities, and allow them plenty of time to write a good letter (one week is usually adequate). Be sure to note whether the application instructs you to submit these letters with the application, or if the teacher needs to mail it separately.
6. Make sure to note and meet ALL deadlines so that you can receive full consideration. The deadlines will vary greatly, so you will have to keep accurate records. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MEET DEADLINES.
7. Scholarships are an ongoing process. READ THE DAILY BULLETIN concerning the latest information. IF THE ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE NOT READ TO YOU, FIND A COPY AND READ THEM YOURSELF. Drop by Mrs. Ketterman's office and pick up the latest scholarship bulletins, testing information, applications, etc. You must keep yourself informed.
8. In addition to this scholarship information, every college/university has its own scholarship programs that they offer to students who are admitted to their school. VISIT THE WEBSITE OF THE COLLEGE(S) YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ATTENDING. TAKE THE INITIATIVE to know what is available at your chosen school, and apply early. You may apply and be awarded scholarships and still change your mind about attending a certain college. Many schools have a NOVEMBER 1 ADMISSION & SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO FIND OUT ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE TO YOU. Mrs. Ketterman will be glad to assist you!!
9. There are many web sites available that provide information on colleges/universities and financial aid/scholarships. Some sites are dedicated solely to scholarships that are available to graduating seniors. Take time to check out these sites, and take advantage of the scholarships available. Also, most colleges prefer that you request information on-line and actually apply for admission on-line. This is one of your best sources of information. Always check the web site of the colleges you are interested in.
10. ASK QUESTIONS! Drop by my office if you need information .
11. Students interested in athletic or activity scholarships must work closely with the school they plan to attend. If you are interested, Let the Schools know!!!! You have to market yourself. To participate in any NCAA school, you must register with the NCAA Clearinghouse. You can do this online & there is a fee. (www.ncaaclearinghouse.net) This site gives all eligibility information as well. You must first meet admission requirements to the college.
12. Students planning to enter the workforce need to begin the Job Search Process and networking in their chosen field to learn more about training programs that are available.
