When I was little, my parents always told me two things about my education. They told me it was very important to get good grades and go to college. They also told me that when it came to paying for college, I was on my own. "You're just gonna have to get scholarships", is what I heard. So from the beginning, I was thinking of different places to apply.
In fact, I was that kid that went to far, far too many teachers to ask for recommendations. I think I asked every teacher I had a decent relationship with, knowing that not all of them would actually do it. I think I ended up with something like 27 recommendation letters, not because I was the best kid ever who did the most extra curriculars or got the best grades…. but because I just asked everyone.
It was the same way with some smaller scholarships. I remember I had one of those great big paperback books that have a ton of different scholarships listed in them by state. I applied to most everything I could find because I figured, it doesn't cost them or me anything to ask, and they can just say no. I found one, and I'm sorry, the book has long been destroyed in fire so I don't remember where it was. But I applied to a scholarship that was for families of coal miners in Missouri. I just applied kind of by accident, but I got it ($500), because the organizers told me I was the only one who applied. I don't have anyone in my family that was a coal miner, and the scholarship committee knew that. Seriously. They had to give it to somebody or sit on it, so I got it. There might not be as many of those now, but they exist.
All that to say, I get the stress of finding scholarships. So I just can't imagine how heartbreaking it would be if one of those scholarships was actually a scam. Here's the thing, though. In this confusing day and age of modern technology, there are ways to protect yourself.
“It generally doesn't cost money to find information about scholarships or apply,” said Michelle L. Corey, BBB St. Louis president and CEO. “Be wary of companies or seminars that say they'll find financial aid for a fee, especially if they contacted you out of the blue. Some companies promise results they can't deliver.”
So, let's go over it. How to find it, how to spot fakes, and what to do.
Check for federal aid first. You know what this is, you've been told about it since pretty much Fifth Grade. FAFSA is a great place to start. Not everybody can get a Pell Grant, but at least you can ask.
Ask trusted sources. And by trusted sources, we mean adults, sorry. You might not be aware of this, but a good portion of what your guidance counselor does is exactly this kind of stuff. They're literally there to guide and help you. That doesn't just mean in times of crisis. They might know of scholarships you can apply for, because little local scholarships get sent to their offices all the time. I know you want bigger amounts, but those $250 little ones add up quick. And if you really want to try a paid service, the counselor can help you find legit ones, they've probably worked with them before.
Do your research. Investigate any financial aid company you consider using. Don't just Google it. Check the company’s BBB Business Profile at BBB.org to find consumer reviews, ratings and other information that can tell you how the company operates.
Get references. If you plan to use a paid service, ask for the names of families in your community who have used the service in the last year so you can discuss their experience. If they can't give you that, balk at the idea, or stall? Walk away.
Beware of unsolicited offers. If you get a random email or letter in the mail, look them up. Ask them how they got your information. If they got it legitimately, they won't mind telling you. Don't click any links.
Take your time. If someone at an event is trying to get you to sign up for their service now, and can't wait, walk. There are a LOT of scholarship opportunities you can find for free.
Ask questions. It is very, very sus if a company won't answer questions about what they do or how they do it. A reputable organization should be able and willing to answer questions.
Get it in writing. Ask for information about fees and refund policies in writing. Keep in mind that dishonest companies may refuse to provide refunds despite their stated policies.
Don't just ignore it and think it'll go away. REPORT IT. In fact, you can easily report them here. And after, well, there are resources to help you recover. You can start here.
I know it's hard, and it's a lot of work that people don't see. But you've got this. I'm sure you'll be able to find several scholarships. One thing I would recommend though, is to not give up on getting scholarships once you're in school. Keep checking with the receptionist of the main office for your major. They're the ones that know the good stuff. Don't harass them, but show up regularly enough that they learn your name. That way they think of you when something DOES come up. They may get offers that you can apply to what you're doing now, or your next year.
I'll wish you good luck, but…you don't need it. You'll do well, no matter what you do.
Scholarshipingly yours,
Behka
Gallery Credit: Eliza Siegel
Gallery Credit: Madison Troyer
