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Expanding Horizons: Scholarship Tips

Scholarship Tips

Applications for scholarships for the 2010-2011 academic year are now available. Visit http://www.fsc.edu/development/Scholarships.cfm.

Study abroad scholarships are now available. Visit http://www.diversityabroad.com/scholarships

1. Fill out the scholarship application - you have nothing to lose.
2. The personal statement is important
   • be sure to stand out: share something special about yourself
   • take your time - it should be well written
   • proof read, proof read, proof read - errors can be deadly
3. Read the application - follow instructions. Don't ignore deadlines.
4. Ask EARLY for letters of recommendation from
   • school: faculty and staff
   • community: club leaders, advisors, etc.
   • someone who will actually write the letter
5. Follow timelines. Doing so will ensure that your application gets there on time.
6. Sources:
   • Educational Opportunity Centers:
   • Ed Central - Worcester
   • Boston Public Library - Boston
   • College Financial Aid Office
   • Internet Sites (MS Word)
   • Student Support and Student Affairs Office
   • Local home town/community
   • Parents place of business
   • Clubs and organizations
7. Determine what the scholarship is looking for:

   • good academic performance
     • this may be important, but is often not the only requirement
   • community service
     • this includes volunteer activities also
   • special interests/talents
     • athletics
     • hardships/obstacles
     • interests and talents - music, art, drama, etc.
     • maybe you are a left-handed oboe player
8. For scholarship programs seeking diversity, now may be a great time to highlight your uniqueness, e.g., race, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation.

FINALLY......Give it a try - you have nothing to lose. These searches can take up some of your time, but the potential "awards" are worth it.

Possible Scholarship Timeline-

* Please note each scholarship will carry its own deadline schedule.