Scholarship Resources!

Written By Amber Brierly

Scholarship resources thanks to wai central florda!

Below is a comprehensive summary of scholarship tips shared during an insightful webinar hosted by OnFinal’s founder, Amber, alongside her dear friend Leila. These tips are designed to guide you through the scholarship application process and help you secure the funding you need. Don't miss the valuable resources listed at the end of this article, packed with excellent links to scholarship tips and tricks.

Maximizing Your Scholarship Potential: Recap of Our Informative Webinar

We want to extend a huge thank you to all who attended the recent webinar on scholarship tips and tricks. It was a fantastic hour filled with invaluable insights and practical advice from my good friend Leila and myself. We are both scholarship winners who have collectively secured over $35,000 in funding for our flight training.

For those who couldn't join us live, we have great news! You can catch the full webinar recording [LINK TBD]. This session is packed with actionable tips to help you navigate the often overwhelming process of applying for scholarships.

Start Your Search Early

Begin your scholarship hunt at least six months to a year in advance. This allows you ample time to discover opportunities and prepare your applications. Create a timeline for your scholarship applications to stay organized and on track.

Create a List of Scholarships

Compile a list of all scholarships you're eligible for and sort them by application deadlines. Include scholarships from various sources: aviation organizations, community foundations, educational institutions, and local businesses. This way, you won’t miss out on any potential funding opportunities.

Set Application Deadlines

Note the deadline for each scholarship and set personal deadlines for gathering materials and submitting applications. Allocate extra time for unexpected delays or issues to ensure everything is submitted on time.

Gather Required Documents Early

Identify what documents you need, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of enrollment. Request these documents well in advance to ensure you have everything ready by the application deadline.

Create a Plan

Map out a plan for completing each application. Break the process into manageable tasks and set mini-deadlines for each part. This approach makes the process less overwhelming and ensures steady progress.

Utilize Various Resources

Aviation organizations like Women in Aviation, EAA, NGPA, OBAP, and PAPA are excellent resources for finding scholarships. Additionally, use online scholarship databases and search engines, consult school guidance counselors and financial aid offices, and reach out to local community organizations and businesses for more opportunities.

Read Eligibility Requirements Carefully

Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria before applying. Look for scholarships that match your specific qualifications and interests. This increases your chances of being awarded.

Take Notes

Keep detailed notes on each scholarship, including eligibility requirements, required documents, and deadlines. Organize this information in a spreadsheet or document for easy reference. This will help you stay organized and keep track of your progress.

Follow Directions Precisely

Read and understand the instructions for each scholarship application. Ensure all required documents are included and adhere to any specific formatting guidelines. Double-check for errors and submit before the deadline.

Essay Writing Tips

When writing your scholarship essays, ensure you understand the prompt and address all key points or questions. Be authentic and share your personal story, experiences, and goals. Structure your essay with a strong introduction, a detailed body, and a concise conclusion. Highlight your achievements and discuss your financial need in depth. Finally, proofread and edit your essay multiple times to ensure it’s error-free.

Choosing the Right Recommenders

Select recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths, character, and achievements. Request letters early, giving your recommenders at least 4-6 weeks' notice. Give them all the necessary information about the scholarship and specific points you’d like them to address in their letters. Ensure letters are addressed correctly and express gratitude for their support.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure your pilot certificates are signed on the back part of the plastic.

  • Follow the exact submission requirements and do not include extra materials unless specified.

  • Avoid photos on resumes unless explicitly asked for.

Special Resources

We discussed some valuable resources during the webinar, which you can find below:

We hope these tips help you on your path to securing scholarships and funding your aviation dreams. Don't forget to check out the recording of our webinar for even more insights and firsthand advice from successful scholarship recipients.

If you have any questions, please reach out on social! @OnFinalAviationApparel on Instagram.



 
Amber Brierly
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