Share
PrintMoney Monday: How to Find Scholarships
Reported by:
Producer:
Leisa Williams
Contact:
Archived Reports:
High school seniors are looking ahead to college this summer or fall. But first, they have to figure out how to pay for it. 7's Lynn Martinez shows us how one expert is helping kids find free cash for college in tonight's Money Monday.
WSVN -- Ben Kaplan, Scholarship Expert: "This is something you can make happen. You can realize your educational dreams."
Ben Kaplan knows what he's talking about. When he was in high school, he won 24 college scholarships worth $90,000.
Ben Kaplan, Scholarship Expert: "Changed my life. Got me admitted into Harvard, and since then, it's been my personal mission to help others realize their education dreams and not let money stop them from doing that."
Ben wrote a book, called "How to Go to College Almost for Free," helping kids, like these Hallandale High School seniors.
Student: "Do you think it's better to apply for the local scholarships rather than the one that is worth like $20,000?"
Ben says, apply for as many scholarships as possible, both big and small; look at past winning essays and applications to see what judges like; and always try to make an emotional connection.
Ben Kaplan, Scholarship Expert: "Scholarship judges award money to people, to students, not resumes."
Also, to manage your time better, recycle and re-use essays. Custom-tailor them to fit each new application.
There's everything to gain and nothing to lose.
Carl wants to be a journalist.
Carl Valsaint, Applying for Scholarships: "At first, I didn't feel like I could win any of these scholarships. But listening to him, it gives me more confidence."
Michael wants to study astrophysics. He's applied for 80 scholarships.
Michael Manamon, Applying for Scholarships: "I am just trying to cover my tuition, book costs and housing on campus."
Ben says it's all out there for the taking.
Ben Kaplan, Scholarship Expert: "There are $8 billion to $10 billion awarded every year from corporations, foundations, associations and community groups. All this money that is out there, there is help if you seek it out."
Lynn Martinez: "You can also apply for college scholarships when you're a high school junior, and there are scholarships for grad school. The key is to apply."
And if you have story ideas for Money Monday, e-mail us at moneymonday@wsvn.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
How to Win Scholarships