Saturday, June 20, 2015

Quote for the Day

"Be who you are and say what you feel.  Because those that matter, don't mind, and those that mind, don't matter."
--Unknown

Friday, June 19, 2015

Did you miss me??

Sorry for not posting for the last two weeks.  I have been busily writing.  My new book Dining With Avery must be ready for the printer in the next few weeks and I am racing with the clock.

Friday, June 5, 2015

Your Scholarship Portfolio

Your scholarship portfolio is a critical part of applying for scholarships.  Searching for scholarships is the easy part of the process.  Having all of your documents, letters of recommendation, and several versions of your personal essay ready in your portfolio will avoid missing deadlines.  

Now that you have submitted at least three requests for Letters of Recommendation and have all of your required documents filed in your portfolio, it is time to start working on your first Personal Essay.

My next post will start you on the journey of creating the MOST important document in your scholarship application -- your Personal Essay.

Start brainstorming about why you deserve to win a scholarship.  Next time I will give you some ideas. 

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of Recommendation are the second most important documents in your scholarship application packet.  It is critical to start immediately requesting your endorsement letters.  There is a very specific process that you should complete.  Please refer to the following:

  1. Start off with a verbal request. "Do you feel comfortable writing a wonderful letter of recommendation on my behalf"?
  2. Prepare a scholarship request packet.  You will need:
  • Two white envelopes (9 X 12)
  • Formal letter requesting a letter of recommendation.  (Sample in the book and/or on my website in the downloads.)
  • Copy of the Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Recommendation.  (Sample on my website in the downloads.)
  • Completed Scholarship Resume.  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
  • Completed Personal Data Form  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
  • A copy of your current unofficial transcripts.
  • Self address one of the 9 X 12 white envelopes.  Fold the envelope in half and include with all of the above documents.
  • Address your other white envelope.
  • Deliver or mail the request for a recommendation packet to the professor, counselor or other professional.
  • Allow two weeks for a your Letter of Recommendation.
  • When you receive your letter, write a thank you note immediately.
  • Enclose some small token like a bookmark, post-its or even a candy bar to show your appreciation.
  • You may need to do follow up a few times.
Remember that you will need a minimum of three Letters of Recommendation.  You will need to update them every year or two.