How Applying for Local Backyard Scholarships Can Help Pay for College
Introduction
So often when one thinks in terms of getting a scholarship for college, what comes to mind is someone handing you a check for all of the money needed to cover your tuition costs for the next 4 years.
Although this would be the best way to pay for college, it rarely happens. A better strategy is to seek out a series of smaller scholarships. For example, ten $500 scholarships spend the same as one $5,000 scholarship.
Where can I find these small scholarships?
The short answer…Everywhere. The first place to look is in your own backyard. There are several local scholarships awarded every year to several students in your own neighborhood. Now-a-days many students (and parents) start their search for scholarships at the computer by logging onto the Internet. While this is a good idea for larger national scholarships, I recommend that you let your fingers and feet do the walking, Pick up the phone and call or visit local organizations.
Who should I call?
- For one you can start with fraternal or service clubs, such as Elks, Kiwanis, Lions or Rotary club. Are you the child of a war veteran? Have you ever thought about contacting the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)?
- You can also try religious organizations, such as your local church; perhaps they give scholarships to member students. Some of the larger churches may even sponsor scholarships for any student in the community. Or within a 10 mile radius.
- Another source of scholarships is local politicians they will sometime have funds set aside for qualified students in their district. Another source is local businesses or chambers of commerce. These organizations give away several small $300-$500 scholarships every year.
As you can see, the list is quite extensive, but the only way to know is to make the effort. Why not start today.
In life it sometimes takes money to make money, that being said, I want to suggest a book that will be worth every penny you spend on it:
A Good Book to Buy
1001 Ways to Pay for College: Practical Strategies to Make College Affordable
Finally
I want to leave you with one last tip about scholarships: Apply early and apply often. But don’t do it blindly, students need to take the time to do the research necessary to ensure that they meet the criteria for the scholarships they are seeking.
By taking a few moments to find out the guidelines will save you lots of time and effort. No one wants to spend time applying for scholarships for which they will not be considered.
