Tips for snagging scholarships while still in high school?

I'm trying to plan ahead for college and was wondering what steps I should take now, as a high school junior, to improve my chances of receiving scholarships for college. What are some strategies or opportunities I should be aware of?

First, it's smart to start researching scholarships as early as your junior year. This will give you ample time to gather the necessary information and get an idea of the types of scholarships you're interested in and are eligible for. Here's some advice on how you can maximize scholarship opportunities:

1. Diversification: Explore scholarships from various sources like local businesses, community organizations, national corporations, and colleges themselves. Look beyond just academically-focused ones; there are many scholarships tailored to specific skills, interests, or personal background (e.g., community service, embodiments of certain values, first-generation status). By diversifying, you broaden your chances.

2. Organization: Keep track of the application requirements and deadlines for each scholarship. This can include recommendation letters, essays, or interviews. You want to ensure you're not rushing to meet a deadline at the last minute or missing an opportunity because of an overlooked detail.

3. Tailored Applications: Make sure your application aligns with the values or focus of the scholarship. It's not enough to send a generic application to all scholarships. To stand out from the other applicants, your responses should directly address the questions asked and reflect the criteria or values the scholarship upholds.

4. Pursuing Passions: Engage deeply with your extracurricular activities. Many scholarships value demonstrated commitment and leadership. Rather than spreading yourself thin across numerous activities, focusing on a few and making meaningful contributions can strengthen your applications.

5. Financial Need: If you come from a low-income household, there are many scholarships specifically designed to aid students in financial need. Make sure to investigate these opportunities.

6. College Updates: If you've been admitted to a college, stay in touch with the financial aid office. Sometimes, colleges have funding available for incoming freshmen, and you may be able to secure additional scholarship money.

7. Using Tools: You can utilize platforms like Appily to track your scholarship applications and find new opportunities.

Remember, the process of scholarship applications can be time-consuming and often requires thoughtful work, but the potential payoff in terms of reducing college expenses is substantial. Good luck!