1. Take ALL classes seriously. Getting an A in a stupid class is still getting an A. If you get a C in a stupid class, that you acknowledge is STUPID, then how does that make you look? HMMMM....
Grades are the great distinguisher! Believe me. I've seen students take remedial classes to achieve a 4.0 GPA and receive more scholarships than honors students with a 3.0. I am not encouraging you not to challenge yourself. I am challenging you to choose classes carefully. Plan according to the school you wish to attend.
2 Once in school, look up special programs. Ronald McNair is an EXCELLENT program, especially at the University of Maryland. Graduate school applications cost an arm, leg, and toes. McNair program gives students graduate school application waivers and fellowships (which you do not have to pay back CHI-CHING)
3. Volunteer in academic offices: If you have a good personality or decent work ethic, volunteer at your school with a teacher that has either attended or taught at the school that you wish to attend. This may not be ideal in some situations (i.e. out of state). However, some students wish to attend a school that is a town over. Volunteer once a month. People are less likely to reject people that they know.
SIDEBAR: People who know you will reject you. I previously stated that they are less likely to reject you.
4. Do not FACEBOOK Stalk people. I cannot explain this enough. If you are scared not to make friends prior to college, FB is not the way. They track you. Use Twitter. That way you see where they are hanging out. And, you can search what people have to say! People tell all of their business on social media: I got this award or this scholarship. Google it, then apply for the same award the following year. BINGO!
5. If you attend a state funded school, chances are your delegate, senator, city council, mayor, governor, Congressman, and state legislature all have scholarships. Call around, email people. Don't pester them. But, don't take no for an answer. They receive taxes to do their job. You are a citizen and have a right to receive help to fund your education.
*Maryland: go to mdelect.net to find your delegate/state senators all give scholarships and you can apply for all of them $500-$1500 per year
6. Do Research: research helps you become closer to professors and looks great on scholarship and graduate applications.
7. Don't limit yourself to government loans. Look at international, national, state, local, and private scholarships. There is money for every one. Even at my church there is a scholarship. But, most students don't ask.
I am providing these tips in the hopes that you will use them to your advantage.
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