Upon Graduation college students are faced with the challenges of truly confronting the “real world”. They must make arrangements for joining the workforce, or furthering their education. Therefore, the last thing on their minds should be the presence of a financial burden, yet for many this is a common reality.
In this generation, students have to deal with far more expensive tuition prices than in the past. Many do not have the proper confidence, or preparation to apply for scholarships to help ease the weight of tuition fees. In turn they end up in a state of complacency, reluctantly paying off loans, well into their adult lives. However, there are countless options for students to gain money while in school, ensuring that they can reach stable financial positions upon graduation.
While one is still attending high school there is opportunity for one to receive a scholarship directly from the schools they are applying to their Senior year. In this instance it is important to make sure to research the schools you are interested in, as well as the programs they offer. In my experience, many schools, especially HBCUs, have specific guidelines regarding the requirements it takes to obtain a scholarship upon admission. Prospective students will want to make sure they find schools which they align with, and meet the guidelines.
There also remains a plethora of areas to apply for scholarships, outside of one’s university. Perhaps the most common way to earn scholarships is through external organizations such as charities, Greek organizations, and community groups. According Kevin Keys, on an episode of The Campus Rundown, by Historically Black Since TV good sources to get scholarships from are the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), and various local Divine 9 organizations. These groups cater to minority students in particular, and it is imperative that you create an account for them. Upon creating an account you can apply for several scholarships directly on their website.
A comment from current Mister Savannah State Alexander Richardson Jr is “I’m going to get a faculty member, a staff member, and someone from the community that knows me personally.” Aligning yourself with people who can advocate for you to receive a scholarship only increases your chances of receiving the money. Having a well-rounded, and decorated portfolio, shows these committees what you truly have to offer.
While it may seem tedious, the process of obtaining scholarships can become simple with practice, and is well worth it in the long run. I spoke to Hampton University students about the ways in which scholarships have aided their academic journey, and freshman Camille Johnson stated scholarships have “been financially beneficial because my parents are paying for two tuitions. It’s helped me get better resources for my major and my independent study”.
Many of our parents grew up in a generation of naivety surrounding the financial responsibilities brought on by obtaining a higher education. Consequently, the gift of our generation is the opportunity to change this narrative. Therefore, if you are in college, or planning on attending, I encourage you to seek out sources for scholarships. The process becomes easier with time, and will aid you in breaking the generational curse of financial instability.
