Next semester seniors will have the opportunity to apply for the local scholarships offered by Lincoln County organizations, clubs, churches, businesses, and individuals. Scholarship applications offer a quick snapshot of what the student has to offer; therefore, students should spend the time needed on the applications to present themselves in the best way possible. To accomplish this goal, students should follow these Top 10 Scholarship Application Do’s.

1. Understand the scholarship’s mission - To get the money, one needs to know why the group is giving it. In other words, read the description of the award to see why the organization is sponsoring it. For example, a photography club might sponsor a scholarship for promising young photographers to promote its craft or to build awareness in the public.

2. Remember who the audience is - Think about who the judges are likely to be. For example, students need to address animal rights activists and retired dentists differently.

3. Give the selection committee what they want - A student is not going to win unless he shows how he fits with the scholarship’s mission.

4. Be proud of all accomplishments - List all awards, honors, and activities. Don’t be afraid to brag.

5. Focus on leadership and contributions to school, church, and community - Again, make your contributions known because the judges will not know otherwise.

6. Make your application stand - This means write something that sets your application apart from others. Write unique accomplishments.

7. Practice to make sure everything fits - Make spare copies of the application or practice on another piece of paper before filling in the final copy.

8. Get someone to edit or check the application - Having someone check your application will create the best error-free applications.

9. Include a resume - Whether the application asks for a resume or not, make sure to include one that is tailored to that specific scholarship.

10. Make copies of the finished applications for reference - Many scholarships ask for the same information, and referring to ones previously completed will save time.

New scholarship information includes the following:

The local Elks Lodge with the Tennessee Elks Association is sponsoring a nursing scholarship. Applications are in guidance and must be returned to guidance by January 12, 2007.

Bethel College has announced its Hendrix Scholarship Competition. The Competition will be held for qualifying high school seniors February 16 and 17, 2007. To compete, the student must be a high school senior with at least a 3.25 grade-point average and a 24/1090 or above ACT/SAT score. Students who compete successfully in the Hendrix Competition may receive a scholarship ranging from $1,000 to full tuition and room and board. Applications are in guidance, and the deadline is February 12, 2007.

Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms have arrived. Students need to come by the college and career room in guidance to get one.

Next week’s article will discuss filling out the FAFSA.