Scholarship Tip #3: Where to Search, part 1

Here is the #1 question I get from students:  How do I get scholarships?  And the question behind that is, how do I FIND these scholarships?  To be truthful, looking for scholarships does require a bit of a learning curve, and since most people find it easier to look online than using a book, I'm going to use this post to cover the online sources, and a second post to cover offline sources.  The best four places to start online are:  search engines, college websites, google, and pinterest.  Use ALL of them to yield the best results.

Search Engines

1.  Because you will receive LOADS of emails from the scholarship engines about possible scholarship matches, it might be advantageous to set up a different email for your scholarships.  However, this only works if you check the new email at least once a week.  If you're going to ignore the new email account, you might want to just use your regular account and sign up for one scholarship engine at a time.  

The point:  be honest with yourself about how well you check various email accounts, and make a plan that fits you the best.

2.  Fill out your student profile as you set up each account--and be as complete as possible!  This is how you get matched with scholarships, so it's worth your time to give as much information as possible about your activities, interests, and strengths.

3.  List all possible majors and degrees.  If you are undecided, then check everything that you could possibly pursue.  Want to study Engineering, but think that English is a possibility?  Check both!  Many scholarships are geared towards students pursuing a specific field of study, and you want to keep all options open for yourself.

4.  Hopefully, you'll keep these scholarship engine accounts for multiple years--and if so--you should take time to update your information each year.  By then, you'll have had other experiences, joined clubs, completed service projects, and had other life experiences that will match you with other scholarships.  Update!

Here are several scholarship search engines to check out.  

• Scholarships.com
• Scholarship Search
• Fastweb
• Cappex
• Scholarships 360

College Websites

Since Colleges give the largest proportion of $$$$ to students, don't overlook this source!!!  Each college website is a little different, and you won't to be sure you click on each link to learn all the opportunities at the colleges of interest.  Be especially aware of each college's academic scholarships, since they vary (this helps because you might get more $$$ at one college; also, it helps to know what scores you need for specific levels of scholarship aid)

Google  

Try different variations of search words on Google to yield different results.  I've tried "scholarships for high school seniors" or "high school seniors Utah Scholarships", and then any other added words to narrow the search.  If you have a specific talent, interest, or family background that has scholarships--use them in the google search!  This can be done with "scholarships for first generation college students" or "scholarships for low-income students Utah high school senior".  Play around with how you word things, and you'll be amazed at the results.

Pinterest

No, it's not just a cool place to find decorating and party ideas.  Use the same technique here as wish google--playing around with different search words.  The results are amazing!  

***NOTE:  The important thing with ANY of these is to put in the time to search.  Read Scholarship Tip #2: Time to Search for specific guidelines about "how much time" is usually needed .  

Scholarship Tip #2: Time to Search

Tip #2:  Make TIME to Search

Most students (and parents) talk about being frustrated while searching for scholarships in a vague way, and when I ask them how long they spend searching for scholarships, they dance around the subject until finally admitting that they looked for about 20 minutes before being overwhelmed...and then don't look again for 2-3 more weeks, if they ever looked again (most students only ever look for one 20-minute session, then give up).

The problem is both lack of FREQUENCY and DURATION.  The solution is increasing both.

I'm pretty practiced at scholarship databases, searching scholarship books, even using Google and Pinterest to find scholarships--and one afternoon I was trying to find specific scholarships for seniors that were coming up in the next few months.  It took me about 40 minutes to find 3 scholarships that were good fits for many of our seniors.

What does this mean for you?  You should expect to put in the same amount of time (maybe more), with roughly the same yield.

DURATION:  You should be able to find 3 scholarships to fit YOU in about 40 minutes - 1 hour.  You've got to just sit down, not get frustrated with the ones that don't fit you--and then when you DO find the good fits--put them on your XCel Spreadsheet (explained in Tip #3) that is YOUR personal list of scholarships.  This is the DURATION:  plan to search for 40 minutes - 1 hour, and the yield of finding 3 scholarships in that time is fairly accurate.

FREQUENCY:  You should search for scholarships once a week, beginning as early as possible in high school (seriously...begin as a freshman).  If you are a junior and you haven't started yet, try to search 2 times a week to make sure you know which scholarships you will apply for before your senior year begins.

***Important Note:  Many scholarships are open to students in multiple grades, and so if you are searching in 9th grade, you can begin to apply for the scholarships listed as "open to 9th - 12th graders".  Even if you don't win in 9th grade, you can re-apply in 10th, 11th, and even 12th grade.  With extra practice, your chances of winning increase.

Scholarship Tip #1: Pay Attention to the Deadline

I get a TON of questions about scholarships, so I'm going to write a series for the next few weeks about scholarships.  Here is the first one, and it might seem an odd place to start, but it's important to start with this one because if you don't pay attention to this, you are going to miss winning scholarships everytime.   Here's the tip:  when you write down when scholarships are due, you should write down the date 2 weeks before the actual deadline.

Watching students over many years, I've noticed a trend that won't come as a surprise:  students will push things to the very last minute of the very last day.  And before parents and teachers jump on students with a well-practiced lecture on procrastination...remember...most of us do the exact same thing with our own deadlines.  

So, is that it?  We're simply doomed to not winning scholarships because we can't get our act together ahead of time?  

No--just be sure that when you list the deadline for ANY scholarship you want to apply to, you should list it 2 weeks BEFORE the actual deadline on your own personal spreadsheet.  This way, you don't even come close to missing it.  I've seen it happen too many times where students miss the deadline by hours, usually by a misreading of the time deadline.  For example:  some deadlines will say "Deadline on October 1st at 4:00 p.m. EST".  The student ONLY sees October 1st, and submits it before midnight...but the reality is that it was due at 2:00 p.m. MST (2 hours difference from EST).  So, they're late...and when they're late...their application isn't even considered.  Why is this?  Because many scholarship committees have more than enough applications that were received on time, and they don't need to make exceptions for the late-comers.

The lesson?  Make sure that all the work you do on a scholarship application pays off by getting it in EARLY (I advise 2 weeks early, but even 1 week early still works...and allows for a little window to fix things, while still getting it in several days before the real deadline).

***Note:  This same technique also works for other deadlines:  in high school, college, and life beyond the K-16 world. ;-)

Scholarships that REPEAT EVERY FALL!!!

This is EXACTLY the same post as last year's "Big 10 Fall Scholarships"....because they are EXACTLY the same scholarships.  Just re-posting so that this year's seniors can get started ASAP, and that the younger grades can look through at the sort of application requirements that come up again...and again...and again...

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Every year, there's a host of scholarships that repeat themselves.  The requirements are roughly the same each year:  same deadlines, same requirements, same amount of money.  So, for seniors--this is the year you apply.  For all the other grades:  read up about the scholarships, and do what you can to prepare...and make sure to apply for the ones that are open to younger grades.

DEADLINE ALERT:  Most of the deadlines not only have a specific date, but also a time.  Most of the times are listed in EST (Eastern Standard Time).  My suggestion is to mark your OWN calendar with the deadline being 5 days (minimum) before the actual deadline, so you don't even come close.  That way you won't miss it by minutes, and end up crying all night...or all year (seriously, this has happened).

1.  Coca Cola Scholarship  Open to  H.S. Seniors.  Deadline:  5:00 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time), October 31, 2017.  Amount:  $20,000 to 150 students.  Minimum GPA:  3.0 cum.  They are looking for students who excel academically, give service, and have overcome a trial.  Application currently OPEN.

2.   Voice of Democracy: Essay Scholarship  Open to 9-12 can enter by writing and recording a speech on a specific prompt.  Check it out--there are state winners and a national winner, ranging from $1,000 - $30,000.  Deadline:  October 31st, by Noon to your local post.
***Also--for students in grades 6-8, check out the Patriot's Pen program.  It has multiple awards between $500 - $5,000.

3.  Horatio Alger Scholarships  Open to H.S. Seniors.  Multiple Scholarships available--for those interested in a 4-year college OR a Tech College.  Money ranging from $1,000 - $25,000 (multiple awards given of each amount).  Click on all the different tabs--you can apply for MULTIPLE awards from the Foundation.  Earliest Deadline:  October 25, 2017 (Noon, Eastern Standard Time).  Application currently OPEN.

4.  Daniel's Fund    Open to H.S. Seniors.     Deadline:  November 30, 2017, 4:00 p.m. MST.    Requirements:  ACT score of 17 or higher, U.S. citizen, demonstrate financial need, high school senior.  Amount:  Remaining amount of money needed to pay for college (whatever college the student is accepted to).

5.  Doodle 4 Google  Open to K-12.  Window:  OPENS September 14 (no deadline listed yet).  This is a fun scholarship!  Simply 'doodle' the 'google' logo, according to the year's prompt.  (Each year a different prompt / theme).  It's such a fun scholarship--AND it's open to all students K-12!  In fact, most years, younger students win, because I think they have fun with it and enter, while the older students overthink it and convince themselves they don't have a chance.  Don't make that mistake!  Pick up some drawing pencils, some brushes--whatever medium you want--and get to it!

6.  Elks Most Valuable Student  Open to H.S. Seniors.  Window:  OPENS September 1 - November 27.  Requirements: U.S. citizen, high school senior.  Judged on scholarship, leadership, financial need.  500 awards are given per year, ranging from $4,000 - $50,000.

7.  Quest Bridge  Open to H.S. Seniors.   Another BIG scholarship.  It matches students up with colleges, and grant full-tuition, room and board scholarships.  Basically--if you get this--college is paid for.  They are looking for students who have "achieved academic excellence in the face of economic challenges".  The application window is open NOW and closes September 27.

8.  Prudential Spirit of Community  Open to Grades 7-12.    Deadline:  November 27, 2017 (Noon, MST).  This is a Service Award.  They are looking for individuals who have made a difference in the community, and the application covers these areas.  Awards range up to a $5,000 award.

9.  Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Program  Open to H.S. Seniors.  Deadline: November 14, 2017 at Noon EST.  This isn't just a scholarship--although it starts with that (giving up to $40,00 PER YEAR for 4 years)--it's also a mentoring program to help students succeed in college, helping them with internships, advising, and college success.  Minimum requirements:  3.5 cum GPA, 26 on the ACT, financial need (they define financial need as having a family gross income below $95,000...well above the standard for most scholarships).  Check out their other programs, including the young scholars program or how to receive a scholarship when you transfer from a community college to a 4-year college.

10.  Sterling Scholar  Open to H.S. Seniors.  This is a program that begins at the high school level, and ends at the Wasatch Front Region (for our school, at least).  It awards students who excel in one particular academic area, as well as involvement in leadership and service.  The deadline for DaVinci Academy Sterling Scholar Applications is October 1, 2016.  Applications will be available on September 22nd for the high school level.  Be sure to attend Advisory during College Prep Thursdays for more information.

ACT Prep Post #3: How to Get a Perfect ACT Score

This is less of a "post", and more of a reference to a great post on the PrepScholar Website (an ACT prep company).  So, head on over and read the AMAZING post:  How to Get a Perfect ACT Score

Also, check out the previous posts I've written on this subject:

ACT Prep Post #1: Mental Stamina
ACT Prep Post #2: Best Websites and Books.

Don't STOP before you START!

I just read a great post on the NMMI Blog (NMMI:  New Mexico Military Institute) about helping students START their education.  It's important to have both students and parents involved in this, because it often takes BOTH parties working together.  This is critical so that students don't get caught in limbo with the many things that must happen for them to not only apply to college, but to also figure out how to pay for it, register for classes, attend orientation, and begin this whole new adventure.  From watching seniors go through this process many times, I've seen many students have great hopes of attending college--but sadly never got started.  Either the parent or myself...or BOTH of us can help students on this path to success!  You really can't have too many people who are on your side to help, especially with new beginnings!

Just yesterday I spent an hour with one of our seniors planning out her college schedule.  We sat at my computer, navigating the college website, finding the General Education requirements, and understanding the program to register online.  At first, I was clicking on all the buttons--and then I turned it over to her.  I was right there to help, but she began to see how the process worked, and felt better that she could go forward on her own.  She understood how to register, what a "credit" meant, and how building a college schedule actually worked.  We had a great time, and I love to be a part of this as much as any other part of my job!

This student didn't know how to register for classes--but she knew to ask for help!  She simply sent me an email that said, "Mrs. Krim, I don't know how to register, and orientation isn't for another month.  Can you help me?"  That was it--just a simple request for help.

In the previously mentioned post from NMMI, it shows a parent asking for help  (if you didn't click on it before--click here to read it now!).  The important part in this post and the student at our school is that they each ASKED FOR HELP.  Starting is the hardest part of any task, and college is not exempt from that rule!  It's okay--and advisable--to ask for help!

I've been impressed lately by how many 8th and 9th graders have made an appointment to see me, and said, "I know I need to get started...I've been meaning to come see you!"  It's just awesome when students can take this step and reach out for help and guidance.  I hope to see many more students, because these one-on-one appointments can create an individual plan that really focuses on a student's interests and goals.

To make an appointment, just head to the Counseling Office and ask Mrs. Cash for help scheduling one.  Or, send me an *email and I can set up a time as well!  Either way, the important part is to ask for help, and be sure to not "stop" yourself before you ever get started!

*Email Addresses for Mrs. Krim
krim.scholarship@gmail.com
brooke.krim@davinciacademy.org

You can use either one!

The Perks of Advisory!

I have been around DaVinci Academy since it opened in 2004, which is long enough to see many phases of Advisory.  I've seen it combined with lunch, the 30-minute daily Advisory, the 20-minute twice a month Advisory, the 10 minutes combined with 1st period, and a few other schedules.  DaVinci has dabbled in quite a few different schedules, which has affected the length and focus of Advisory as well. I'm happy to report that no matter what schedule we have--the Advisory curriculum for grades 7-12 dealing with career exploration and college prep is here to stay!  This has been our best year yet with Advisory, and I just want to review some of the things we've changed--as well as what to look forward to next year.

• Specific Grade Level Lessons  We have differentiated the lessons by grade so that each grade receives age-appropriate lessons.  For example, 7th grade Advisories deal more with interest exploration, career exploration, and study habits.  10th grade Advisories deal more with scholarship research, building a resume, and researching colleges.  It's been great to see how positively the students are responding to this leveled teaching.
• Guest Speakers  Each month, students hear from a presenter in a whole-grade Advisory.  They have heard from people in various fields, including a Flight Attendant, an Electrician, an Author, and a Home-Decorator.  We are excited to continue to bring in more speakers--so that students are exposed to many different careers and work perspectives.
• Focused Help  Each grade has also had the opportunity to meet with Mrs. Krim in both whole-grade presentations and individual classes to hear more about college and scholarship topics.  The 8th - 11th grades learned how to research and organize scholarships, as well as how to "Be RAD".  These focused lessons are vital for students, allowing them to learn techniques to apply for scholarships as early as possible, and be prepared for the whirlwind of senior year!  

I sometimes hear parents and students say, "What should I be doing for college?  How do I find scholarships?  How can I get better grades?"  These are the topics we cover in Advisory!  We have the resource--every student simply needs to take advantage of these lessons and apply them!  If they apply each month's lessons, they really have all the tools they need for success both here at DaVinci and in College! 

Looking ahead, we'll continue with the class-lessons and whole-grade presentations.  We have some GREAT lessons from this year that are now ready to roll every year!  We'll add some more study habit lessons for 7th grade and 8th grade, and college exploration helps for 9th and 10th grade.  And don't forget the guest speakers!  We'll be hearing more from individuals in various fields, including Engineering, Performing, and Music!

Thanks to all the Teachers for all the support this year with Advisory--it's been our best year yet!  

College Spotlight: Applied Technology College

Last up in the series of college spotlights is the ATC, which stands for "Applied Technology College".  The ATC is part of the larger system known as UCAT:  Utah Colleges of Applied Technology.  We are extremely lucky to be in a location between two ATCs--the Ogden-Weber Applied Technology College (OWATC) and the Davis Applied Technology College (DATC).  Some programs overlap, while there are other programs that are only found at one location.  For example, the DATC is the only one with a Firefighting Course and the Diesel / Heavy Duty Technology Program, while the OWATC offers the CAD program (Computer-Aided Design), as well as a Baking and Pastry program.  It's worth perusing both websites to see all the options:  OWATC website  and  DATC website.

All high school students in Utah can attend any ATC once they are finished with their sophomore year, as well as reached their 16th birthday.  They can attend for free, only having to pay for fees (which are usually between $40 - $70).  Also, about 95% of the programs are open to high school students!

I want to address some helpful information about attending the ATC both during high school, as well as after high school.

• The ATC has completion rates and placement rates to rival every university in Utah
• ATC:  80% completion rate, 94% job placement, 99% licensure rate
• Utah Colleges graduation rates reach no higher than 62%--see here
• The ATC is linked with specific companies, which lead to a 94% job placement
• Students have internships during their ATC training
• Students receive help with job placement once the training is over
• Every program at the ATC with a length OVER ONE YEAR is eligible for pell-grants
• If you can receive a pell-grant, it can be used at the ATC
• This is applicable if you are looking at attending the ATC after high school
• The payscale for those completing specific ATC program is comparable to those completing a Bachelor's Degree
• Surgical Techs can earn $31,000 / year which is the same as a first-year teacher
• Surgical Techs at the ATC complete the program in 13 months, compared to 4-6 years for a Bachelor's Degree 
• The ATC can be either a career-path in and of itself or a springboard to a further degree at a college
• Example:  many engineering companies value certificates that verify a specific skill in addition to a college degree  
• Example:  earning a welding certificate from the ATC helped a student earn $23 / hour--and is currently attending Weber State
• Great video about this fact:  Success in the New Economy
• Going to the ATC simply helps you have more tools in your toolbox!  
• Helps you explore interests and possible career choices during high school...at no cost!
• Helps you gain high school and college credit...at no cost!
• Do you see where this is going?  There's really no reason to bypass this opportunity.  

To get started, visit Mrs. Brown and be sure you are one of the students that takes advantage of this great opportunity!  Even though it's easy to brush off the ATC as "for someone else", you will be surprised at how having a certificate in a number of fields can help you begin any career path.  

College Spotlight: Southern Utah University

Southern Utah University is the up-and-coming college in the state. It's a growing university, each class increasing by about 15-20%.  They're building the university in a myriad of ways, bringing in great professors and programs.  SUU gives students all the perks of a university, but the attention of a small college.  Check out the list below of some SUU facts (in no specific order), and also become familiar with their website.  

• With 140 majors to choose from, the university helps students in many fields, ranging from Aviation to Computer Science, Performing Arts to Outdoor Education.  Check out all the possibilities on their "Majors Page"
• The "Outdoor Education" Major doesn't happen at every university!  You have to be in a location that will help students build skills in a variety of outdoor pursuits.  Cedar City is just such a place, and they have built an impressive program as the "University of the Parks".  It's a great fit for students who are interested in working in the outdoors, outdoor management, or recreation therapy (to name a few)
• The Aviation program has partnered with SkyWest, helping students learn with flight simulators and actual aircraft.  By just earning an Associate Degree, students are qualified to be hired to regional airline companies.  (In order to be a pilot for a major airline, a student would need to continue on and receive a Bachelor's Degree)
• Students help students!  SUU involves student advisors, known as "ACES" to help incoming freshman.  
• ACES don't take the place of an actual advisor, but help give advice on which classes they should take, how to arrange a schedule, and how to succeed as a co-ed.  
• It gives freshman an immediate student-mentor, helping the graduation rate. 
• December 1st is the Priority Deadline
• If you are going for the Presidential Scholarship, you must meet this deadline
• If you are going for a different scholarship (less money), then you simply need to meet the February 1st deadline
• Look at the Scholarship Index Here
• A lot of focus on the individual
• Even though it is a "university", there is always someone to help you
• When you call, you get an individual helping you (seriously, this is one of the best universities that has helped me over the phone)
• Strong Athletic Program 
• Men's and Women's NCAA Sports
• Intramurals
• The Location
• seriously...if you love the outdoors, this is your Mecca.  

College Spotlight: BYU

The next college spotlight is BYU, the largest religious university in the state, with a student enrollment of 33,500 students.  BYU is one of four colleges run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (the other three being BYU-Idaho, BYU-Hawaii, and LDS Business College).  Here are some things to consider about BYU:

• It is the most selective university in the state, accepting 50% of all applicants.  This is known as a "selective" institution, and students should definitely research the level of competition if they are interested...and do everything to fulfill the items important to BYU Admissions.
• BYU Admissions looks at the regular things most selective universities do:  grades, standardized test scores, rigor or classes (Honors / AP / IB), leadership and extracurricular involvement.  But in addition, they require the following:
• Seminary Attendance and Graduation 
• Students need to attend Seminary for all 4 years of high school.  Seminary is essentially a class focusing on gospel teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  
• Honor Code Agreement
• Students agree to a Honor Code, and also verify that they have lived the Honor Code in the past. From the website:  "students live by set spiritual standards".  
• Read the Honor Code 
• Their AP Policy grants credit as most selective universities do (sparse), because they want students to take the specific courses at BYU.  
• AP and IB Guide
• Because it is a HUGE university, the list of majors and minors seems limitless.  Check out these few to get started
•  International Studies Program
• Animation Program 
• Engineering and Technology College 
• Find more through the main website:  www.byu.edu
• The application weighs the essay heavily.  Follow this advice:
• They want to know how will BYU benefit you, how you will add to BYU culture, and how BYU will help you achieve your goals.  
• Don't write thinking that you have to write what BYU wants to hear.  Instead, be real and authentic.  
• The cost for BYU is $5,460 for the year--which is comparable to many state colleges
• Because it is a "church" school and is financed by offerings given by members of the church, there is a different cost of attendance for those belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and those who do not.  Whichever group you fall into, it's a bargain for a great education. 
• Read more here about the specific costs of BYU 

College Spotlight: LDS-Business College

Next on our lineup of college spotlights is LDS Business College, which is similar to Westminster is one way:  people know the name, but not exactly why it is a college worth looking at.  Hopefully this post helps with that.

LDS Business College is located in downtown Salt Lake City.  It's not exactly a junior college, tech college, community college, or 4-year university.  It's aim is entirely different:  to help students earn certificates needed for the business world, and have them working by graduation date.  And they help students reach that goal in 2 years!  So, if time and money are primary concerns of yours AND these are fields you would look at anyway...this might be your perfect fit!  Also, you can earn an Associate Degree so that if you do decide to transfer to a 4-year university, you have completed your Gen.Ed. Requirements (win-win).  Here are 6 areas that their degrees and certificates fall into:

1. Business
2.  Health Professions
3.  Interior Design
4.  IT & Computer Programming
5.  Paralegal Studies
6.  Social Media Marketing

As you may have guessed by the name, LDS Business College is one of the four colleges associated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (The other three are BYU, BYU-Idaho, and BYU-Hawaii).  Because it is a "church" school and is financed by offerings given by members of the church, there is a different cost of attendance for those belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and those who do not.  Whichever group you fall into, it's a bargain for a great education.  Read more about the specific costs here.  The Cost of LDSBC

Also, because it is a "church" school, students agree to a specific Honor Code if they attend, and also need to be interviewed by their church leader.  LDS Church members receive an ecclesiastical endorsement through their local congregation leader, a Bishop.  Non-LDS students can go to their own ecclesiastical leader for the first part of the interview, and then have the second portion completed by an LDS Bishop.  LDS-Business is happy to have many students of other faiths study there, and if you want to attend but still have questions just check out the Enrollment Page online, or contact them at the Phone # provided.

The important fact to remember about LDSBC is that the goal is for every graduate to earn a job-specific certificate, earning a salary at the same level that they would with a similar 4-year degree.  Again, if time and money for a 4-year degree seem unrealistic or simply undesirable, check out this option.  It's worth a look:  LDS Business College Website

College Spotlight: Westminster

Westminster College is the ONLY small, liberal-arts college in Utah, and even if you think that liberal-arts colleges aren't for you, take time to actually explore this particular college.  We're lucky to have such a stellar place to study in Utah, and you might discover your own college gem right here.  Westminster aims to create thinkers and developers, opening minds to different perspectives.  They seek to help students participate in social change and justice, being a part of the global world.  It's a great place to study, and here are a few things to help you become familiar with Westminster:

• Great range of programs and majors, check them out!  List of Undergraduate Programs
• Also, if you can't decide on a specific major, you can opt to create one with the help of an Advisory Board.  This is a perk of going to a small, liberal-arts college, the one-on-one attention is phenomenal.  Check out how you would create your own:  Customized Major
• They also encourage double-majors, and help students to fulfill requirements in both areas of study
• Check out majors like Art Administration, Aviation, Outdoor Education, Film Studies, Global Studies, Environment Studies (they are off campus a lot!)
• Also, take time to use their webpage to understand how your interests connect to possible and careers....ones you probably didn't think of!  
• The "WCore" is the Westminster-style to "general-education".  Sure, you have to take gen-ed courses, but why not make it applicable?  Real-life?  Interesting?  That's what they have done with "WCore", and it's going to help create some very happy college students!  
• Read more here:  WCore
• The other benefit of WCore is that these classes focus on two areas--such as history and science--and helping students earn credits in both subjects at once.  The outcome?  Students are finishing General Ed or "WCore" requirements a lot faster.  
• Some fields, such as Music and Dance, require an audition.  Auditions run January - March, and have to be scheduled 2-3 months prior.
• Music Audition Link
• Dance Audition Link
• Don't be tricked by the name "liberal-arts"--they have great rates for students going into the Dental and Medical Fields.  In fact, 100% of their students were accepted into medical and dental school.  
• The price for Westminster looks high if you look simply at the "sticker price.  Be sure to look at the financial aid process, because it is a process, and you don't know how much $$$ you will be awarded.
• Take time to find out more--explore their Website and take a tour in person
• One cool note:  if you go on a tour of their campus, the application fee is waived!  

Want to Win Scholarships? Study Past Winners

Last night, I attended the yearly ceremony for Sterling Scholar.  I have been proud of our students that have competed over the years.  Sterling Scholar is a rigorous examination of all they have accomplished in one specific academic area, while also looking for the "Big Three" of Leadership, Activity Involvement, and Service (see "Big Three" Post).  This year one of our students, Blaine Whitford advanced as a semi-finalist, and another student Lizzie Miller, advanced to become a finalist in this competition, which has only happened for two other students from DaVinci Academy (Daniel Amsel, '11; Sheyne Anderson, '11).  A huge shout-out to both Blaine and Lizzie for excellent work in this competition--we are so proud of them!

As I sat in the auditorium, listening to excerpts from the winning student's portfolio and essay, I was struck (again) by the depth that is demanded to be in the running for such a competition.  As with most things on this blog, I've given out this advice in person, but I'm finally putting it in print:
if you want to win scholarships, look at what past winners have done.  Don't copy them, of course, but learn from their level of commitment in their activities and leadership, academic strength, and far-reaching service.  That way, you are placing yourself on the level to play against students around the state and country in multiple scholarship competitions.  The reason I say this is that students at DaVinci benefit from a small environment, but that can be detrimental if you forget that you are competing from students across the state when it comes to college admittance and scholarship winnings.

Back to Sterling Scholar.  I've said before that the reason we spend a lot of time helping our students understand Sterling Scholar is that it is the template for 90% of all other scholarships.  If you prepare for Sterling Scholar--you're prepared for scholarships.  And the best way to prepare for Sterling Scholar is to know what Sterling Scholar Winners are doing...which is why watching the Awards Assembly is so helpful.

I understand that most families didn't make it to Salt Lake last night.  No worries--Sterling Scholar has already uploaded a recording of the entire night.  It's 1 hour and 22 minutes long, but you will start to notice a trend if you watch even half of the categories, which I would recommend.  There are 14 categories students can compete in, which are:

       English
       Social Science
       World Languages
       Mathematics
       Science
       Computer Technology
       Skilled & Technical Sciences Education
       Business & Marketing
       Family & Consumer Sciences
       Speech / Theatre Arts / Forensics
       Vocal Performance
       Instrumental Music
       Dance
       Visual Arts

Also, if you are thinking of competing in a specific area, be sure to watch that segment.  Enough of the explanation, go on and watch it yourself:

                              Sterling Scholar Awards Night

The "Big Three"

Sterling Scholar is probably one of the most recognized scholarship names in the state, but very few people have actually seen a Sterling Scholar Application.  This post is going to change that--and with good reason.  I feel like every high school student would be aided to see a Sterling Scholar Application because this particular application has all the questions that every other scholarship application has.  It is THE template to track your own progress on the "Big Three" that compile 99.9% of all scholarship application questions.  The "Big Three" in this context does not refer to the 3 characters on the popular T.V. show...no, I'm talking about the "Big Three" pursuits that applications ask for.  They are:

                             1. Activities
                             2.  Leadership
                             3.  Community Service / Citizenship

That's it!  Those are the "Big Three"--and students would do well to regularly check in how well they could fill out an application where they must list and explain their involvement in all three categories.  Since Sterling Scholar has the "Big Three", it is the best one to use for tracking a student's progress on scholarship readiness.   Take a moment, and check out this passage from the Sterling Scholar Application:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

First Section:  Activities

I.  Category Scholarship Activities

a.  In 20 words or less, list up to six activities, honors and awards, relating to your subject*
     1.
     2.
     3.
     4.
     5.
     6.

                 *since you compete in a specific area in Sterling Scholar, they are particularly interested
                   that you have activities IN that specific area.  If you aim to compete in Science--you
                   should have Science Activities.  The same goes for any activity.

II.  Category Scholarship Activities Description

a.  Choose one of the activities, honors or awards, from the list above.  Describe it briefly, and explain why it was meaningful to you.  What did you learn, and what did you accomplish?  (Max:  500 words)

III. Supporting Documents

a.  upload a file or document that supplements the answers given in I and II.

Next Section:  Leadership

I.   Leadership

a.  In 20 words or less, list up to six activities, honors and awards, that relate to leadership qualifications
     1.
     2.
     3.
     4.
     5.
     6.

II.  Leadership Description

a.  Choose one of the activities, honors or awards, from the list above.  Describe it briefly, and explain why it was meaningful to you.  What did you learn, and what did you accomplish?  (Max:  500 words)

III. Supporting Documents

a.  upload a file or document that supplements the answers given in I and II.

Next Section:  Community Service / Citizenship

I.  Community Service / Citizenship List

a.  List up to six activities / honors / awards of Community Service / Citizenship you are involved in
     1.
     2.
     3.
     4.
     5.
     6.

II.  Leadership Description

a.  Choose one of the activities, honors or awards, from the list above.  Describe it briefly, and explain why it was meaningful to you.  What did you learn, and what did you accomplish?  (Max:  500 words)

III.  Supporting Documents

a.  upload a file or document that supplements the answers given in I and II.

My Conclusion

Did you catch the pattern?  You need several activities in each area, and one needs to be meaningful enough that you can write about it for 500 words, including things you have learned and accomplished.  This is a good place to point out that serving for 2 hours at a Homeless Shelter is not enough!  You definitely can't fill up a good essay with that experience, and honestly, you'd be better to just leave it off the list.  And if all you have done in high school is serve for 2 hours at the Homeless Shelter, then GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER AND DO SOMETHING!  Serve!  Join a Club!  Get a Job!  Do something you can put on an application!

The pattern is a classic example of how to be competitive for scholarships, because it shows that students need both BREADTH and DEPTH!  They need breadth:  the number of activities in each section (activities, leadership, service) is six!  That means that students are committing themselves to several different activities, building breadth.  The other part, depth, comes through on the long answer.  It shows that a student was involved in something where they actually learned, helped others, and accomplished something.  That is the depth part, and it is every bit as important as the breadth--if not more important.  


Well, that's it!  Those are the "Big Three":  activities, leadership, service.  If you keep focused on the "Big Three" during high school, you'll not only be competitive for scholarships, you'll discover that high school is a great place to discover yourself!

Scholarship Search Engines

Back to the #1 question I get from students:  How do I get scholarships?!  I wrote an earlier post about How to Find and Apply for Scholarships, but this post is specific about how to use Search Engines.  So...here it is.  I'll offer some tips to organize yourself as you get started, and links to several search engines that are reputable and easy to use.

1.  Because you will receive LOADS of emails from the scholarship engines about possible scholarship matches, it might be advantageous to set up a different email for your scholarships.  However, this only works if you check the new email at least once a week.  If you're going to ignore the new email account, you might want to just use your regular account and sign up for one scholarship engine at a time.  

The point:  be honest with yourself about how well you check various email accounts, and make a plan that fits you the best.

2. Fill out your student profile as you set up each account--and be as complete as possible!  This is how you get matched with scholarships, so it's worth your time to give information about your activities, interests, and strengths.

3.  List all possible majors and degrees.  If you are undecided, then check everything that you could possibly pursue.  Want to study Engineering, but think that English is a possibility?  Check both!  Because many scholarships are geared towards students pursuing a specific field of study.

4.  Hopefully, you'll keep these scholarship engine accounts for multiple years--and if so--you should take time to update your information each year.  Hopefully, you'll have had other experiences, joined clubs, completed service projects, and had other life experiences that will match you with other scholarships.  Update!

5.  Finally--here are several scholarship search engines to check out.  

• Scholarships.com
• studentscholarshipsearch.com
• fastweb.com
• Cappex.com
• scholarships360.com
• Collegeboard.org

Good Luck!  

College Spotlight: Dixie State University

Continuing the College Spotlight Series...next up is Dixie State!  There are two things you should start out knowing about Dixie:  the location in St. George is amazing (although it might make studying difficult!), and the resilience of this University and the Community that supports it is a beautiful thing that shouldn't be underestimated.  Dixie State has grown exponentially over the last 20 years, morphing from a community college to a 4-year college, and now an official State University.  The history is rich, going back to it's founding in 1911 as the St. George Stake Academy (part of the system of academies started by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints).  As public high schools were built, these academies either phased out or converted to colleges, usually community colleges.  If you'd like to know all the details of Dixie's history, check out this write-up on their website. 

So...what is Dixie State?  Why should you check it out?  Because it's the up-and-coming college in the state, adding new programs every year.  Here are some things to know about Dixie State, in no specific order:

• The Scholarship Deadline is March 1!!! (yes, you still have time)  
• Check out their Scholarship Page, which gives info. on EVERY type of scholarship
• Academic, Department, Leadership, SBO, Special Opportunities
• Honestly...one of the easiest Scholarship Pages to navigate
• Every student is automatically reviewed for Academic Scholarships (based on a student's GPA & ACT)
• If you want any other scholarship, browe through the Scholarship Page and complete the necessary applications!  
• Dixie State is an Open Enrollment School--which means that you can be accepted no matter how low your ACT and/or GPA are
• At any college or university, if your ACT and GPA are lower, you might be required to take some developmental math and english courses to show that you are ready for actual college courses
• As a "newer" 4-year university, they are still adding programs
• Adding 1-3 bachelor degrees each year.  
• Just added Exercise Science and Digital Photography
• Check out the list of degrees
• They have a Multicultural and Inclusion Center.
• Activities every Wednesday to give help
• Does a food pantry (even helps students with food)
• GREAT resource to help students
• Check out their website--and click on all the links!  Especially the Scholarships!  
• Also...they have done a DONE of research to compile a list of fantastic scholarships given by outside sources (beyond Dixie State).  Check that out!
• Freshman have a Mandatory Orientation
• Three Parts:  
• watch a video online
• Advisor reaches them either in-person or through phone
• This Advisor is your specific Advisor until you choose a Major
• Such a help to have someone who can help you from Day 1!
• Final Orientation Session on campus:  help with financial aid, registration and any other items you'll need with a first year  
• General Campus 
• Incredibly Safe:  Made the List of 50 Safest U.S. Campuses
• Great Weather September - May (Fall and Spring Semesters)
• Seriously...the lows are usually in the 40s and 50s.  By February, it's already in the mid-60s.
• Read more for prospective students here!  

College Spotlight: Weber State University

Because Weber State is "that school just up the road", it's easy to dismiss it as a viable option after high school.  I hope that all students will give it a chance, and recognize that it has plenty of programs and opportunities that rival other colleges and universities.  There are many students that specifically come to Weber State from out of state, because of a specific stand-out program (such as Nursing, Criminal Justice, Theatre, Pre-Med, History, and others)  Here are some things to know about Weber State, in no specific order:

• Weber State Website
• Scholarships for Weber State are handed out as applications roll in, so it pays to apply early!  
• The deadline for Academic Scholarships is January 9th
• The deadline for all other scholarships (leadership, need-based) runs between February 1st - April 1st.
• Complete the essay and be as specific as you can about your involvement in high school.  
• Once you have been accepted to Weber State, your "account" is created.
• Access everything through the Weber State Email System
• Be sure to login often, and follow-through on directions given through emails
• New Programs within the Science Department
• Great programs and internships
• HUGE new facility--check it out! 
• DreamWeber Program:  this is a program to help students from low-income
• If a student receives a pell-grant, and their family income is less than 40K
• DreamWeber will make up the gap between the pell-grant and any outstanding tuition and fees!  
• Check it out:  DreamWeber Website
• Orientation is mandatory for all incoming freshman
• You can either attend in-person OR online
• This orientation is to HELP you understand the college system.
• Be sure to learn everything you can through Orientation--you'll need the information!
• Weber State has 225+ programs, ranging from certificate to master's programs.  
• Check out their Health Professions (highest accreditation possible).
• Every one of these programs--in the Top Ten!
• Sporting Events:  NCAA -- Division I
• All students can go to sporting events for free
• Weber State has a great Honors Program
• Smaller classes, connect with professors, scholarships available
• Weber State also has several other campuses
• Farmington Station, Davis Campus, Roy Campus
• Online Classes
• Although Weber State is a fantastic college at helping nontraditional students (students over the age of 25), here are some things to remember
• If you take mostly morning classes, you'll meet students in that 18-25 year-old age bracket
• most older students are working full-time, and squeeze in classes at night
• Taking classes with a few older students can be good!
• You can learn from their experience...both good and back, in the classroom, as well as real-world knowledge!
• In the "real world", you don't just work with people your same age
• It's a great chance to connect with people from a wider age-range, preparing you for jobs and careers where you will be expected to do the same
• Housing on Weber State
• Housing on Weber State has recently been remodeled and offer the chance to live in specific "Living Learning Communities".  Check it out here:  On-Campus Housing

Finding the Best School for You

I've blogged about this before, that there isn't one best school for everyone, but it's worth saying again.  And this time, I don't even have to write it all out!  One of the counselors from NMMI (New Mexico Military Institute) wrote an incredibly thoughtful post, including questions students should ask themselves when they are selecting colleges to apply to, and eventually attend.  Here's a great quote from the post:

"By helping many students through decisions on their future education, I have found that emotions take over if there isn’t a written list. This works wonders to help clarify and somewhat quantify your choice of school or the whole decision can end up being very emotionally driven. There is certainly a part of the equation that is ‘feel’, and that is included here, but that can’t be the whole equation."  (Author:  LTC Kalith Smith)

So, if you would appreciate some helpful guidance, read the entire blog post  It's worth your time (and money and future) to work through the questions.  Remember, make sure you find your best fit.

(Want to read more about finding your best fit?  Read Where You Go Isn't Who You'll Be  and  Where You Go Isn't Who You'll Be, Part II )


***I am not paid by the author of the NMMI blog or the book to share these resources.  This blog "To and Through College" is simply a blog to share tips for students to get TO and THROUGH college--with no payment to myself from any link I share.  I'm sharing them because they are the most helpful things a future college student (and their parents) could read!