I'm going to be a college freshman soon and am trying to find scholarships specifically aimed at first-year students. Does anyone have recommendations on where to start or particularly good scholarships to apply for?
Certainly! As a freshman, you're often in a unique position because you can apply for scholarships not just for incoming first-years, but also for continuing college students as you advance through your years.
First, you should check your university's financial aid website for any internal scholarships they might offer for freshmen. Some schools offer merit-based, need-based, and other specialized scholarships that you might be eligible for. It's not unusual for universities to award scholarships to their students, especially to help them manage the transition into their freshman year. Here's a tip - Be sure to pay attention to the deadlines as some might be right around the corner.
Secondly, there are many online platforms where you can search for scholarships. Appily is one of the most comprehensive scholarship search engines. When you create your profile, be sure to indicate you're a freshman so they match you to scholarships for your specific year level.
Next, you can also look into local community organizations or businesses in your hometown. They often have scholarships for local students, including college freshmen. Reach out to your local community or high school guidance office to learn about any scholarships you might be eligible for.
As for specific scholarships, one is the Coca-Cola Scholars Program. They award 150 college freshmen annually and the award is a sizeable $20,000. Another one is the Burger King Scholars Program. They provide a range of awards, and it's open to all high school seniors.
And remember, it's essential to start applying as soon as possible and continue throughout your college journey. Scholarships aren't just for incoming freshmen. There will be different opportunities each year, so never stop looking and applying. Good luck!
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