Mrs. Judkins "Work Smarter, not harder" TIP:

Create a google docs folder online or an electronic scholarship folder on your laptop or a USB thumb drive.

This is a great tool in quickly applying for scholarships. - Just copy and paste!!

Items in the folder should include a senior brag sheet, scholarship resume and essays.

Save each Essay under the name of the scholarship you're using it for.

Keeping a solid scholarship resume is important and you can continue to add to it throughout high school.  Instead of applying for a job, you’re applying for free money!  You can build a great scholarship resume using our Senior Brag Sheet available in the counseling center.

How to succeed in finding scholarships:

Check Scholarship websites, create an account and fill in your information to be matched to scholarships for your situation. 

• Don’t fall for scams. you should NEVER pay to get a scholarship. Do not give out personal financial information like bank accounts, credit card #’s, or your SSN. 

• Don’t underestimate small scholarships. The smaller award scholarships are often less competitive. 

• Don’t wait until your senior year to look for scholarships, they are available for grades 10-12 all year round!

Before you apply:

• Create a scholarship resume (awards, service, experiences, activities, leadership, skills etc.).

• Use a calendar and checklist to get organized.

• Prioritize your applications by deadline.

Essay Tips:

• It’s the story that counts! 

• Be creative, use fresh language and think outside the box.

• Give examples and be specific.

• Be passionate in your essay and write about something of interest to you.

• Proofread a printed copy of the essay for spelling and grammar mistakes.

Additional Tips:

• Use a professional email address.

• Remove inappropriate and immature material on your social media accounts.

• If an application tells you "Essay Optional" view it as "Essay ESSENTIAL"

• Make a photocopy of your application before mailing it.

• Send the application by certified mail/ electronic response with delivery confirmation.

• Apply early and often…Apply, apply, apply!

Most Common Application Mistakes:

• Missing deadlines

• Failing to follow directions – i.e., essay length.

• Leaving out required information.

• Failing to tailor the application to the sponsor.

• Failing to proofread the application.

• Exaggerating or lying on the application

• Applying for an award for which you do not qualify.

• Writing a boring or potentially offensive essay

Lastly, always remember to report your scholarship offers to Mrs Judkins to be added to the Scholarship Awards Ceremony at the end of senior year!