I'm a freshman in high school trying to get a head start on college funding. Are there scholarships I can apply for at this stage? Any advice on where to look?
Absolutely, it's excellent that you're starting early in your scholarship search! Some scholarships don't have a grade level requirement and are open for high school freshmen to apply. Here are a few to get you started:
1. The Doodle for Google Competition: This is an annual scholarship that's open to all U.S. residents from Kindergarten to Grade 12. You're asked to create a doodle that tells the world what inspires you. The winner gets a $30,000 scholarship.
2. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards: If you're an active volunteer, consider applying to this scholarship identifying students who have had a large impact on their communities through volunteering or service projects.
3. Junior Duck Stamp Contest: If you have an artistic flair and an interest in wildlife, you might consider the Junior Duck Stamp Contest. It invites students to create an image of a specific waterfowl species, providing an opportunity to explore your artistic and scientific skills.
Remember, some of these scholarships are competitive, and winning will require some time and effort on your part. It's also very beneficial to regularly check scholarship databases, such as Appily or Scholarship.com, since new scholarships are often added.
One tip to keep in mind: while looking for scholarships, also focus on your academics and involvement in extracurricular activities. These elements of your high school career will open up even more scholarship opportunities down the line. Best of luck!
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