1. Helpful Tips for Scholarships
Mr. Gylland
Ms. Stupke

2. Tip #1: Searching for Scholarships
The search can feel overwhelming
Key places to look include:
Mr. Gylland’s website – Guidance – Current Scholarships
College or career school financial aid office
Continue to check with these offices throughout your college career for scholarship opportunities. Many colleges/universities have online scholarship portals where students can access foundation scholarships.
Local industries related to field of study
Check with parent(s)/guardian(s) employers for scholarship opportunities. Larger banks (ex. Wells Fargo) may have scholarships for students.
Religious affiliations and organizations
B.E.S.T Scholarships
Start your search early!

3. Tip #2: Review Application Requirements
Read through ALL qualifications before applying
Make a checklist for every scholarship you apply for. This will ensure you have all required materials when you submit your application. Scholarship committees/boards will remove incomplete applications from consideration.
Make sure your resume is up to date
Include a professional
This is most common form of communication committees will use when contacting individuals about questions or final decisions.
Ask for recommendation letters early
At least 2-3 weeks in advance and provide writer(s) with updated copy of resume
If possible, complete applications electronically
Don’t limit yourself to one type of scholarship
Go the extra mile and write an essay or two! National scholarships may have larger applicant pools depending on application requirements.
Check your mail/ often

4. Tip #3: Conquering Essay Questions
Common essay questions
“Why do you want to be a _________?”
“Describe your most meaningful achievements and how they relate to your field of study”
“Who has been your biggest influence in your life and why?”
“From a financial standpoint, what impact would this scholarship have on your education?”
Committees are looking for you to speak about your character and show vulnerability through essays. What makes you unique and standout from other applicants?
Record yourself answering the question
Create an outline based on your recording
Stay within the word/page limit and proofread your essay
Essays with grammar/punctuation mistakes are more likely to be removed from consideration
Edit your essay to fit the scholarship
You may find scholarships use similar questions that you’ve already taken the time to answer. Edit what you already have to save yourself from starting over. Do not simply copy & paste the same essay(s)!

5. Tip #4: Don’t forget to say Thank You
Send a thank you note
How do you plan on utilizing the scholarship?
Explain the impact on your future
Send a thank you even if you’re not chosen to receive the scholarship. Thank the committee for considering your application.
Don’t be discouraged
Keep searching/applying
The search doesn’t end after senior year of high school!

6. Stop by the counseling office if you have questions!