Finding Local Scholarships
Undoubtedly one of the most elusive scholarship routes to follow is that of the Local Scholarship. We hear about these sacred beasts in the media, shadowy creatures that offer unspoken promises of an affordable education.
The biggest challenge in researching these scholarships is that it’s not usually an exercise in just spending a few hours on Google. Many of the scholarships don’t have dedicated web pages, and instead are advertised in print material that is sent directly to a small group of people.
That said, many scholarships will send information to local high schools, and these “Master Lists” can be a great resource. To find this information, Google phrases like Midway ISD Scholarships or Lorena ISD Scholarships. This will direct you to counselor’s pages that will be continually adding new scholarships. You definitely do not want to limit your search to your child’s school district. Many scholarships are available to all central Texas students, regardless of high school.
The best resource in looking for local scholarships is to look to your family. For parents, this means to start by making a list of everyone that your child is related to: aunts, uncles, grandparents, and other extended family. Look at your list. What groups do these people belong to that might offer some kind of scholarship? Think banks, credit unions, electric co-ops, employers, and alumni and professional organizations. Rocket Federal Credit Union and Heart of Texas Electric Co-op, for example, have historically offered scholarships to children and grandchildren of their members.
Once you’ve identified some options, have your child start calling those people on your list. Have him or her talk about the school they want to go to, what they want to study, and why they think it is so important to get an education. Then have your child ask that relative to keep an eye out for scholarship announcements. Be sure and give each relative examples where these announcements might show up, which you’ve brainstormed in advance.
Having your child directly make these calls is an important part of this process, for the primary reason that young adults are unparalleled in enthusiasm. Relatives will be moved by your child’s excitement for going to college and are much more likely to actively keep an eye out if they have spoken to your child directly.
One more avenue to explore is related to your child’s primary area of study. If your child is interested in agriculture, for example, scholarships are available through the Heart of Texas Fairgrounds. Nursing students should consider the Lubie Moss Nursing Scholarship. Look for local professional associations whose goals align with your child’s interests, and see what opportunities they may provide.
As you put together your list of options, note that scholarships tend to be offered annually. Scholarships awarded last year will probably be offered again this year. Keep an eye out, get your family involved and your child engaged. We are very fortunate in central Texas to have such supportive business and social communities dedicated to our children’s education. Enjoy your search!