*Note: This was written by a Yahoo! contributor. Do you have a personal finance story that you'd like to share? Sign up with the Yahoo! Contributor Network to start publishing your own finance articles.
I attended a small public university, and with the assistance of various scholarship and grant programs, I studied for four years without worrying about compiling large amounts of debt or paying everything out of pocket. In my time at college, I learned two very important lessons: One, the deeper I got into my program of study, providing my grades were consistent or improving, the more financial help I was offered. Two, I benefited more by applying for small local and school-based scholarships that I ever did applying for larger corporate or nationally based programs.
Thanks to the Upward Bound program that I participated in during high school, I knew right away that I could go to college without spending a lot of money out-of-pocket. As soon as I chose a school, I immediately started searching for scholarships to make my dreams a reality. I tried a lot of websites that compiled lists of available scholarships based on my skills, interests, and intended program of study. I spent days filling out redundant forms, writing short essays and story samples, and submitting what seemed like endless references. These scholarship programs drew a lot of interest because they offered high payouts or chose many recipients. Despite all those applications, I never so much as got a call, although I did get picked as runner up in one of the less reputable poetry competitions.
Fortunately, I did have much better luck when I started looking at more realistic options. Instead of applying for big corporately funded scholarships, I started looking at smaller local programs. Many colleges offer a variety of scholarships. Some were automatically offered, others required application. I was very fortunate to receive enough scholarship opportunities through college programs and community donors to cover my tuition.
For those who want to try this, here is some advice.
If you have specific interests and a little spare time, join some organizations. Many educationally-based clubs and groups offer scholarships only to members, which significantly cuts down the number of applicants. For example, programs like Bonner Scholars provide financial assistance for students who complete volunteer work and work to improve their communities.
Be on the lookout of alumni and community funded scholarships. Many successful graduates choose to give back to their former schools by helping new students financially. Community groups and small businesses often also offer scholarships to local schools. These generous donors will often set their own guidelines for who can receive funds, so there may be opportunities even for students with average grades.
Don't be afraid to apply if you meet the criteria for a scholarship. The worst that can happen is that you are denied, but there is no opportunity to gain without taking a chance. It is surprising how many students are not willing to write a short essay or do an interview.
Finding scholarships can be very competitive, but with some effort and smart planning, finding local scholarships can ease the financial burden of attending college. Remember, small local scholarships may not be as exciting as that big $10,000 scholarship, but that can add up.
留言列表
