I'm stressing out about how to afford college. I've heard there are tons of scholarships available, but I'm not sure where to start looking. Are there specific websites or resources you guys have used to find scholarships that aren't super competitive and maybe a bit off the radar? Also, any tips on how to write scholarship essays or what selection committees are looking for would be awesome. Thanks!
Finding scholarships can indeed be overwhelming but there are several strategies you can use to find less competitive and relatively unknown scholarships. Many students turn to online databases like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Chegg Scholarships - these are comprehensive sources where you can set filters based on your specific profile and needs. Keep in mind to avoid scams where you're asked to pay. Legitimate scholarships will never require payment.
Also, don't overlook local scholarships. Check with your high school counselor or local community organizations - they often have lists or information about scholarships provided by local businesses, organizations, and private individuals. Local scholarships tend to be less competitive because they are available to a smaller pool of students.
As for scholarship essays, some key aspects often stand out to selection committees:
1. Understand your audience: Research the organization giving the scholarship. Try to understand their values and mission, so you can align your essay to match. For example, if the scholarship is from an environmental organization, they might favor essays detailing your contributions to sustainability or your plans to work in environmental science.
2. Tell a personal story: Personal anecdotes can make your essay unique and memorable. Be sure to show rather than tell. For instance, instead of just stating that you are passionate about music, illustrate this with a story of how you spent weekends helping at a local music charity.
3. Stay Focused and Clear: Keep your essay focused on the essay prompt and achieve clarity in your writing. Don't shy away from revising and proofreading until you feel it's the best it can be.
4. Show Impact: Display how the scholarship would make a difference in achieving your goals. Could it help you complete unpaid internships or afford study materials for high-level courses? Always link it back to your larger career and academic aspirations.
Although finding and applying for scholarships takes effort, it's worth it in the long run! Good luck on your journey.
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