SPONSORED BY EOP, CAMP, SSS OF OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY Scholarships 101

Understanding Scholarships What are they? Must apply through a formal application Best applicant(s) selected If selected, you earn free $$ for your education Applying to scholarships is free of charge There are scholarships for all kinds of students, interests, abilities, characteristics, skills Requires a Personal Commitment

OSU Winter Course Schedule MTH MTH COMM CH PAC ALS SCHO 101$$

Common Parts of Scholarship Applications Personal Information Essay Question(s) Letters of Reference List of Activities List of Employment List of Volunteer Service Financial Aid Docs Educational Goals Transcripts

Separate Yourself from the Competition “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t— you’re right.” “It has been my observation that most people get ahead during the time that others waste.” “Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals.” -Henry Ford

Start in Your Back Yard Schedule an appointment w/ Academic Counselor Get in the habit of checking your school Ask your local bank/credit union of opportunities OSU College departments award scholarships School clubs and organizations of interest FAFSA – Can file beginning Jan 01, 2014 Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber  Jan 31, 2014 Deadline, see HMC website Oregon Student Access Commission  Early Bird Deadline Feb 15, 2014, see OSAC website

Do Grades Matter? Absolutely, however…  Scholarships are not just for straight A students  Being well rounded and consistent matters the most  Aim for a clean, respectful transcript  Avoid W (Withdrawals) and I (Incompletes)  Progressive is Impressive A in MTH 102, B+ in MTH 103, A in MTH 111 Every course counts, no matter the rigor Don’t take simple classes too lightly A few poor grades get lost in a sea of good grades Concentrate on LEARNING

Essay Tips Think of your essay(s) like interviewing for a job— the way you present yourself matters Follow directions First impressions are significant—type your essays! Consider multiple drafts before submitting the final one—bring out your best writing Have editors and supporters Add style and personality to your writing Show them who you are

Reference Letter Tips Give people enough information about the scholarship Give them enough notice before the due date  Your recommenders are busy people! Check in from time to time to remind them of the letter. Select people in power, with titles, and prestige Get to know professionals Someone who knows you well to discuss your character, activities, goals, etc. Thank those who support you!