Spring seems to be the scholarship season for many graduating high school seniors and college students. Balancing your time between enjoying the warmer weather and applying for scholarships can be challenging. To maximize your odds, I have a few tips and tricks. 

Start early and follow directions 
Procrastination and scholarship deadlines do not mix well. Give yourself ample time to gather the essentials: official transcripts, letters of recommendation and polished essays. Be sure to double-check the application instructions. Small mistakes, like skipping a required document or grammatical errors, can sink your chances. Starting early means less stress and more time to perfect everything.

Write essays that stand out
Your essays are your chance to shine, so don’t hold back. It’s smart to keep a collection of essays ready for common prompts, like “What are your career goals?” or “Why did you choose your degree?” 

But here’s the secret: always tweak them to match each application. Scholarship committees want to know your story, so highlight what makes you unique. Oftentimes a short story or example is better than just listing facts. Whether it’s a story about a character trait, overcoming challenges, pursuing a passion or having an influence, tell your story in a way that sticks with the reader.

Get your materials in top shape
Nobody wants to read a sloppy application. Organize your materials, proofread everything (yes, everything) and ask someone you trust to give your essays a once-over. A polished application shows you care. 

Inside tips for your Angus Foundation scholarship application
If you’re applying for the Angus Foundation scholarships, access the application through your Angus portal. When listing accomplishments, put your most proud accomplishments or experiences first. Reordering later can be a hassle, so plan it before you start typing. 

In addition to the Angus Foundation scholarship application, consider applying to the Certified Angus Beef (CAB) and Jim Baldridge scholarship as well, all of which are due May 1. 

You don’t have to be a show ring superstar or have your Bronze and Silver Awards to apply. Be sure to point out how the American Angus Association and the beef industry have affected you personally. They want to hear your unique story and how you will continue to change the world around you. With some planning, effort and confidence, you can significantly reduce the cost of your education. Start now, stay organized and pursue your dreams.