Scholarships and Opportunities Bulletin

WARNING! There are many resources available for scholarship information. 

BE CAREFUL! You should NEVER be asked to supply social security numbers, bank account information, or to pay to get a scholarship or scholarship information. If you have questions, check with Ms. Kirkpatrick.

TIP: Ms. Kirkpatrick will use school emails to pass along scholarship information she receives or has access to for students. Most of these will be vetted for security, but be cautious and alert as you are working through the process. 

More information on keeping safe (link). 

General Safety Tips:

Research and verify thoroughly

• Research the scholarship provider: Investigate the organization offering the scholarship. Look for an established presence, professional website, and verifiable contact information. Check third-party reviews. 

• Beware of red flags: Be cautious of scholarships promising guaranteed awards or requiring fees/payments. Legitimate scholarships NEVER ask for money to apply or claim an award. 

• Use reliable resources: Utilize trusted scholarships search websites and databases like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, Going Merry, College Board's BigFuture, Idaho Next Steps, and Appily.

• Consult school resources: Check with your school counselor or college financial aid office for assistance in verifying scholarships and avoid potential scams. 

Protect your personal information

• Use a separate email: create one dedicated for scholarship applications (sparing you SPAM/JUNK mail). 

• Exercise caution with information requests: most scholarships will only require basic personal information (academic information, essays, etc during initial phase). DO NOT provide SSN (social security number, bank account info, or credit card information). 

• Secure log in credentials: if an application requires a login, use a STRONG, unique password. 

• Be aware of phishing attempts: scammers may send fake emails mimicking real organizations to steal personal info. Avoid clicking suspicious links or opening attachments and verify that emails are real (checking senders official website or contacting them using verified contact info). 

• Review privacy policies: Read these so you know how YOUR information could be used.

Be diligent throughout the process

• Start early and stay organized: Scholarships open in the fall for many companies/organizations (some again in January after fiscal year). Keep an eye on deadlines and create a tracking systems for applications and their requirements. 

• Make STRONG application materials: present yourself in the best light, highlight your achievements and goals when writing essays. Often these can be used as a base and altered to fit several scholarships.  Make sure you are asking for letters of recommendation from individuals (not family/friends) that know you well and can speak to your strengths. Examples: teachers, bosses, coaches, advisors, mentors, etc. 

• Proofread, thoroughly: review all application materials carefully for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. 

• Avoid high-pressure tactics: Be wary of scholarships that pressure you to act quickly or pay immediately (you SHOULD NOT be paying scholarship providers anything). Once you receive an official scholarship offer you MAY have a set deadline to accept by, PLEASE make sure you are keeping an eye on those dates. 

• Report suspicious activity: if you come across a scholarship scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) LINK