Certainly, we’re in agreement — money is good to have, right? A scholarship from OTC can help you keep more of it in your pocket. Apply anytime until June 1 for summer and fall 2022 scholarships. Awards range from $500 per semester to a full ride. But, before you jump right in, some pre-planning could lead you up the ladder to success.
Items to have ready when you start
This isn’t the FAFSA application – it’s totally separate. These are OTC Institutional scholarships (provided by the college; typically, a tuition or fee waiver) and OTC Foundation scholarships (provided by local donors, people and businesses).
You don’t have to search for the scholarships that might be suitable for you and apply to each separately. Just fill out one application, and you’re automatically applied for everything for which you’re eligible.
Here are some things that will be handy to have when you start the application:
- Your finished essay (see below!)
- Your OTC GPA (if you already have one)
- ACT score
- Volunteer history (if you have any)
If you don’t have access to some of those things, don’t worry — just do your best with what you’ve got.
Finish your essay before you start the app
The essay part is that important. You don’t have to be Shakespeare — far from it. But it’s easier than you think to write one page about your academic journey.
Don’t get intimidated. Let’s break this down. In the middle of the application there’s a text box with these instructions:
Please provide a brief essay on how a scholarship will help you achieve your educational goals at Ozarks Technical Community College. Include topics such as your financial needs, future plans, and any additional information you would like to include about yourself. Your essay represents your best opportunity to make a compelling explanation for you to receive a competitive scholarship, so consider your submission carefully.
In other words, talk about yourself. Did you lose your job this past year, and having a scholarship would help make ends meet? Mention it! Are you out on your own for the first time or going back to school as an adult while balancing kids and a job? Mention it! Computers don’t assess the applications. Real people do! Tell them about the things that make you you. It will help!
Need more help figuring out what to say? Or want some friendly eyes on your essay before you hit that “submit” button? Be sure to visit the Carol Jones Writing Center in person or virtually.
Time to get started – be positive!
If you’re still thinking that there’s no way you’d be considered, think again! Over a thousand students annually are awarded OTC scholarships. In fact, 92% of all our students are eligible. It doesn’t take a ton of time to apply, it’s not hard, and we do want you to get that money!
Ready to get started? Click HERE to apply.
