Graduating from secondary school can be a very exciting time in your life but, it can also be scary and confusing. Designing your future takes careful planning and preparation. If continuing your education is what you desire and funding is a challenge consider applying for a scholarship. Scholarships are available from many different types of institutions: schools, organizations, corporations & private individuals.

Whatever path you choose your success will depend on how you present yourself to others. Here is some helpful advice to presenting your best “YOU”. Good luck!!!!

A. Become very familiar with the costs of tertiary education and what you can take on: courses, books & supplies, accommodations. Some scholarships cover everything, some are only partial.

B. Research the scholarship you are applying to: Familiarize yourself with the organization’s website. What is their mission? What are the requirements for the scholarship? Make it very obvious to your interviewer that you have done your research. Ask a question about something you saw on their website

D. When submitting an application, make sure you take your time to prepare complete  and thoughtful answers. Edit your work: spelling, content, length.  Perhaps have someone else read it before you submit it

C. During an online interview

Make sure you have a stable internet connection. If that is a challenge for your location, choose the best time of day when you know its most stable. Let your interviewer know if your connection is unstable.

Make sure you are in a quiet, uninterruptible space.

Test your camera to makes sure the angle is positioned to look your best. Be conscious of your background. Blur if necessary.

Make sure other devises are turned off to avoid distracting noise (cell phone, TV, radio)

Get settled in before the interview. Take some deep breaths to relax you. Maybe, have a glass of water next to you.

Your body language says a lot. It can impact what you are saying and how you come across. Don’t appear too stiff. Use your hands to convey emotion.

Look your best: Neat hair and appropriate clothing

Be prepared to talk about yourself. When you are asked a question, avoid one or two word responses. Elaborate. Consider this your one and only opportunity to sell yourself. LET YOURSELF SHINE!

Know your strengths and weaknesses and be prepared to talk about them if asked.

Be prepared to answer these questions- Why are you deserving of this scholarship? Where do you want to be in your life in 5 years, 10 years, 25 years?

The interviewer may refer to your application to conduct the interview. Use application questions to practice the interview. Perhaps ask someone to conduct a practice interview.

At the end of the interview, the interviewer will often ask if you have any questions. Make sure you do!!! It shows motivation and intelligence.

SEND A THANK YOU EMAIL!!!!!!!!

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