• Ask your high school counselor if local scholarships are available from community foundations, civic or fraternal organizations, or through a corporation or business with a presence in your community.

• Prepare a calendar with the deadlines for all applications, paying particular attention to the early deadlines that apply for some college-specific scholarships.

• Apply for as many scholarships as you can – hundreds are available, but selectively choose those with criteria that match your situation.

• Follow application directions carefully; DO NOT MISS DEADLINES.

• Line up letters of recommendation from references who can speak to your abilities.

• Do a thorough, thoughtful job on the essays. Make sure you have someone proofread your work.