For Your Information

1. Start early. Some scholarships take a year, or more, of advanced planning.
2. Read the directions. It is surprising how much you will learn.
3. Follow the directions. They are given for a reason.
4. Be thorough. Answer questions fully. Your application is the primary information by which you will be judged. If "they" don’t know it they can’t consider it. At the same time, however, provide only the information the donor requires. If they don’t ask for it, don’t send it!
5. Neatness does count!!! Unless it is absolutely impossible, type your applications. If you do not have access to a typewriter or personal computer, then PRINTING, ever so neatly, is permissible (although just barely.)
6. Report covers or other "fancy" binders are expensive, don’t impress donors, and in NO WAY improve your chances for a scholarship. Unless the application specifies using a binder, DON’T (see number 3.)
7. If an essay is required as part of an application, its quality is of the UTMOST importance. It is certainly acceptable to be imaginative and creative—don’t be afraid to take a chance and try something a little different. At the same time, don’t forget the basics. Take the time to be sure your spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, etc., are correct. While it is generally permissible to allow another person to review your essay, the basic ideas and writing must be your own.
8. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE. Air expressing an application is expensive, and the stress of wondering if you’ll meet a deadline is bad for your heart. Keep in mind there is a world of difference between a RECEIVED BY due date and a POSTMARKED BY due date. Know which one you are attempting to meet.
9. Be kind to your referees. Remember the faculty, staff, clergy, employers, and others you ask to submit letters of recommendation for you, do have other commitments. In a timely manner, provide them with enough information about both you and the scholarship(s) for them to write
   letters which will address not only your strengths but the specific focus of the award(s) for which you are applying.
10. Be sure to follow-up on other scholarship opportunities. The more scholarships you apply for the greater your chances to win an award. Assistance is available through the internet as well as through college, university and public libraries.