I'm a high school junior really interested in pursuing a career in writing or a related field, and I'm starting to look into scholarships to help with college costs. I've heard there are a lot of writing scholarships available specifically for high school students, but I'm not sure where to start my search or what kinds of programs are out there.
Do any of you have recommendations for where I could find writing scholarships? Are there any specific ones that are well-known or particularly generous? Also, any tips on the application process or what to include to make my application stand out would be super helpful. Thanks!
Numerous writing scholarships are available specifically for high school students. These scholarships typically involve submitting pieces such as short stories, poems, or essays. The following are a few of them:
1. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: This is one of the most respected and generous programs available to high school students, recognizing creative talents in numerous categories, including writing.
2. National High School Poetry Contest: A very popular competition held annually, giving high school students an opportunity to showcase their poetry talents.
3. NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing: Sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English, this program aims to encourage high school students in their writing and to recognize publicly some of the best student writers in the nation.
Regarding tips on the application process, here are a few things to consider:
1. Start Early: This gives you ample time to write, edit, and perfect your submission.
2. Follow Instructions: Make sure you adhere to the specified format, length, and any specific prompts or themes given by the scholarship provider.
3. Be Authentic: Showcase your unique voice and perspective. It's your personal style and varied experiences that will set you apart in a large pool of applicants.
4. Proofread: Beyond grammar and spelling, ensure that your content all adds up and flows smoothly. A different set of eyes, like a trusted teacher or mentor, can also give valuable feedback.
Start searching scholarship databases online to find the ones most relevant to you. A good starting point is College Board's Big Future website, which lets you filter scholarships by criteria like your grade level and intended major. Remember that smaller, local scholarships may have less competition than big national contests, so don't ignore these opportunities. Good luck on your writing journey!
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