Applying for College Scholarships

By: Carline Dumerlin-Folkes

Co-Author of Miss University 

Miss University Book

Scholarships are a great way to earn money for college. While college can be expensive (tuition, books, etc.) don't let the cost deter you from attending. Keep in mind that even if you are not an "A" student, you may still be eligible for scholarships based on need, athletic ability, various talents, or if you plan to pursue a particular field of study.

3 Easy Tips for Applying to Scholarships

Just Do It!

Apply to as many scholarships as you can because you have nothing to lose, and a lot to gain. Many scholarships offer the convenience of applying online.

Deadlines

Be mindful of deadlines because you don't want to miss out on an opportunity of a lifetime. Aim to submit your applications at least 2-3 weeks before the deadline.

Ask Around

If you are unsure of how to search for scholarships, ask for help. Guidance counselors usually have tons of resources that can help you. You can also check your local library and websites like Fastweb.com, Scholarshipexperts.com or studentscholarships.org for scholarship opportunities.

3 Scholarships You Can Apply To RIGHT NOW!! 

(Click on link for eligibility and official rules)

Coca Cola Scholars Foundation 

Deadline 10/31/12

Free Speech Essay Contest 

Deadline 11/25/12

Most Valuable Student Competition

Deadline 12/7/12

Remember:

You miss 100% of the shots you don't take- Wayne Gretzky

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College Scholarships: Do You Know Where To Start?

It's almost prom time and I'm sure many of you or your children are deep into planning.  While it is the most important event of a senior's life, so is preparing for college.  Scholarship deadlines are fast approaching.  By now, you should have a pretty good idea of what college you will be attending or writing checks to in the Fall.  With all this talk about expiring student loan interest rates and calling your Congressman or Congresswoman to vote yes to extending the rates, the answer to all of this is to apply for EVERY scholarship out there.  Yes, it is a tedious job but it is one well worth the effort.

As mentioned in a previous blog post listing scholarships available here in Valley Stream, you should definitely apply for all of the scholarships available right here in your own back yard.  Then you should apply for college scholarships available at your choice college as well as scholarships available across the country.

A sample listing of what ScholarshipsOnline.org has is as follows:

• PMI Educational Foundation Scholarships support the development of students to become the best and brightest future project management professionals.
• The EMPOWER Scholarship program is designed to help ethnically diverse students to attend college and become healthcare professionals.
• The Jacob K. Javits Fellowship Program offers annual fellowships to students who are studying arts, humanities, and social sciences at the doctoral and Master of Fine Arts level.
• The Jeannette Rankin Women's Scholarship Fund awards scholarships every year to low-income women who are 35 years of age or older.
• The CIA Undergraduate Scholarship Program was developed, in part, to assist minority and disabled students, but the opportunity is available to all students who meet the requirements.

The good thing about these scholarships is that a 4.0 isn't needed and many only require a 2.8 g.p.a. to maintain the scholarship.  Check them out and subscribe.  They also have a listing of the Top 100 scholarship tips. It's free and easy.

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Valley Stream Community Scholarships

It's that time of year where students can apply for college scholarships.  There is also scholarship available for students as young as 13 years old.  Many will apply for the national corporate scholarship but I think it's best to start local and work your way up.  There's less competition on the local level.

Years ago, a young lady who participated in a youth program I ran in Michigan was awarded approximately $40,000 through community organizations.  How?  She wrote one awesome essay and used it, plus a tweak here and there, for every application.  She also had a pretty impressive g.p.a.  Below is a list of community scholarships available right here in Valley Stream.  I urge you to share this post with all of the students in your community.  College tuition and text books aren't cheap. I've already begun to invest in my nursery school student's future education by opening a New York 529.  If you don't have a college fund, you definitely want to check out the scholarship information below.

Yva Jourdan Foundation, Inc.
Global Citizenship Essay Writing Scholarship Contest
Eligibility: 13 - 18 years old/Valley Stream Resident/Volunteer for TYJF Global Citizen Day
To apply, please email tyjfscholarships@mail.com for an application.
Award: $250 Scholarship (Click for application)
Deadline: May 15, 2012

Kiwanis Club
Eligibility: Local graduating seniors.
To apply, please visit any Valley Stream high school guidance office or at the Henry Waldinger Library
Award: Unknown
Deadline: May 1, 2012
*Pancake fundraiser on 4/22 from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m., Blessed Sacrament Church

Lions Club
Eligibility: Local graduating senior based on financial need, academic standing, and school and community service activities.
To apply, visit www.valleystreamlions.com.
Deadline: June 1, 2012




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Star Potential Hosts Teen Talent Fundraiser - March 10th

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