School Year Wrap Up

The weeks leading up to summer break are always a time of mixed emotions. We are excited for the break and all the fun things we'll get to do, but we also feel a sense of sadness as we say goodbye to another school year. As we finish our last few days, it's important to remember that how we end our year can set the tone for how we start the next one. Here are a few tips on how to finish strong and head into summer prepared to apply for schools and scholarships. There are final exams to study for, college applications to complete, and graduation to look forward to. It can be easy to get overwhelmed by all that needs to be done. However, there are some simple things that students can do to help ensure they end the year on a strong note. First, it is important to maintain a regular schedule. This means attending classes, studying for exams, and completing homework assignments in a timely manner. Additionally, students should take advantage of any resources their school or community offers, such as tutoring or mentorship programs. By staying on top of their studies and getting involved in their community, high school students can finish the year strong and set themselves up for success in the future.

To be prepared for fall, I encourage students to work hard now to avoid having so much to do over the next few months. Applying to college can be a daunting task, but there are several resources available to help ease the process. An important step in the process is to research scholarships and financial aid opportunities. There are many scholarships available, so it's important to narrow down the search by looking for scholarships that best fit your qualifications. Another next step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is used to determine your eligibility for federal and state financial aid. After submitting the FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) which outlines your expected family contribution and need-based aid options. Once you have an idea of how much money you'll need to cover tuition and living expenses, you can begin researching colleges that fit your budget. By taking the time to prepare in advance, you can make the college application process less overwhelming and more exciting.

To be eligible for scholarships, students must typically meet certain criteria. For example, scholarships may be awarded to students who have demonstrated academic excellence or who have financial need. Scholarships may also be awarded to students who participate in extracurricular activities or who have overcome personal obstacles. In most cases, scholarships are awarded by colleges or universities. However, scholarships may also be provided by businesses, foundations, or private individuals. To find scholarships, students should start by researching their options. Students can use search engines or resources like Scholarship Scouts to locate scholarships. Once they have a list of potential scholarships, students should carefully review the eligibility requirements and application deadlines. Applying for scholarships can be time-consuming so prepare early. For guidance, schedule a Scholarship Strategy Session with us so you can get tips on methods that help you get an edge on your competition.

Students who have won several academic scholarships are likely to be more attractive to admissions committees than students who have no scholarship experience. To increase your chances of winning a scholarship, start by doing your research. There are many websites that provide lists of available scholarships, as well as tips on how to fill out applications. You should take the time to speak with your guidance counselor or financial aid officer as they are a great resource. They will be able to share information about scholarships that are specific to your school or region. Remember, the effort you put into applying for scholarships will pay off in the long run. Don't be discouraged if you don't win every time, the more you apply to, the more success you should find.

Tiara Gregg