Last week, I was disappointed not seeing any DePaul University students on the list of 55 scholarship winners from The LAGRANT Foundation (TLF), a phenomenal organization that encourages future leaders in advertising, marketing, and PR. Since the scholarships were promoted by several fellow faculty members, I was curious how many of our students might have applied so I checked with the Foundation. I was shocked with the answer – 0, zilch, nada.
I then inquired with a few other scholarship grantors and was shocked to hear the low application rates, including the ones I support at DePaul, Indiana State and PRSSA. In many cases fewer than 10 applications. Talk about great odds — far better than PowerBall. But like Lottery marketers remind us, “You’ve got to play to win.” One father of a scholarship winner told me earlier this year that his daughter’s scholarship was “far better than a low-interest student loan because it never has to be repaid.”
In the past I have written several blog posts featuring some outstanding students who have won multiple scholarships. The one thing they all had in common — they applied! Some applications are as simple as one-page, yet in many cases only a handful of students apply. By this post, I hope more students will realize their odds are better than they might think if they only take a few minutes to check out available scholarships. And apply.
Applying for scholarships doesn’t require perfection—it requires effort, consistency, and a willingness to put yourself out there. Every application is an opportunity to invest in your future.
If you’re on the fence, here are some tips to help you get started and stay motivated:
- Start early and stay consistent
Don’t wait until the last minute. Begin researching scholarships as early as possible and set aside time each week to apply. - Apply to as many as possible
Think of scholarships as a numbers game. The more you apply, the better your chances of winning. - Don’t ignore smaller awards
Scholarships with lower dollar amounts often have less competition. Winning several small awards can add up quickly. - Customize your applications
Avoid copying and pasting the same essay. Tailor each application to match the organization’s goals and values. - Highlight your unique story
Grades matter, but so do your experiences, challenges, and ambitions. Be authentic and let your personality shine. - Stay organized
Keep track of deadlines, requirements, and submitted applications using a spreadsheet or planner. - Ask for strong recommendations
Choose people who truly know you and can speak to your strengths. Give them plenty of time to write thoughtful letters. - Proofread everything
Small errors can make a big difference. Review your applications carefully before submitting. - Don’t fear rejection
Not every application will be successful, and that’s okay. Each one improves your skills and brings you closer to a win.
Scholarships can open doors and reduce financial stress, but they require initiative. Start applying today—your future self will thank you.