As college students, we are constantly thinking about money. We want more of it, we use it all the time, and now it’s going toward paying for our education. Many students rely solely on financial awards to fund their schooling. While financial aid can provide grants and loans that allow significant relief toward paying tuition, they are not the only resource. Scholarships are an extremely helpful resource that many students forget about.

 

Department scholarships

After filing the FAFSA, do not forget to apply for the general and departmental scholarships. But don’t think you are done.   While that application covers many scholarships offered by the school, there are departmental scholarships not included in the application. Talk with your professors! Many programs will offer major based scholarships of substantial amounts. For example, the theater department has many scholarships that their students can audition for. You may have to do something extra, such as an essay, a research study, or an audition. But in the long run, you don’t have to pay scholarship money back!

 

Regional/State scholarships

Get out in to the community! The state of Missouri has many scholarships and opportunities available to its residents. Consider regional scholarships or scholarships offered by organizations you are a apart of. By engaging in the community, many scholarship opportunities will crop up unexpectedly.   Don’t be afraid to be on the look out for some extra aid.

 

Online Scholarships

Check out some scholarships online! You would be astounded by how many there are out there—and of substantial amounts! One helpful website is fastweb.com. Fastweb calculates your information and gives you lists of scholarships that match your profile. Some require essays or activities, but many you can sign up for without doing extra work. Give these opportunities a shot!

 

Don’t hesitate another moment!

Get out there and find that money for your education.