This Is What a Scholarship Can Do for You

 I think most people have a good understanding of what a scholarship is but, I will provide a brief explanation just in case. Basically, a scholarship is an award you earn through various endeavors and it will pay some or all of your expenses for going to college. What is required to earn one depends on the particular scholarship you are trying to get. What expenses will be covered and for how long, as well as what college you go to are also dependent on the specific scholarship you are applying for. That is it in a nutshell.

The important point here is what a scholarship can do for you! Just about everyone agrees that a college education is the first step to improving the overall quality of life. This is true for many reasons. For one thing, a college education often leads to jobs with far better pay as well as health benefits. And, let's face it, if you can take care of your living expenses comfortably and keep yourself healthy, that is a huge improvement to your quality of life. Another benefit of a college education is that it gives you tremendous self-esteem because it is a huge accomplishment. If your self-esteem is healthy, you are not as likely to develop mental health issues. And, maybe one of the biggest benefits of a college education is that it gives you the power to guide other people to something better!

Unfortunately, even though all of this is absolute fact, there are many barriers preventing many people from being able to succeed in college. One of the biggest barriers for many of us is the cost of a complete college education. You are not only looking at tuition and books for your classes when you figure your costs. There is also room and board, food and clothing, general school supplies, and transportation - just to name some of the more common secondary expenses. This is where winning scholarships can truly make all the difference in the world!

Many scholarships are known as "full ride scholarships" - this kind of award will generally pay for tuition, books, and lodging often through your first degree, sometimes through your entire college career but, they are usually for one specific college. Other scholarships will pay your full tuition at the institution of your choice. Others will cover your lodging and food. Some are just downright fun little contests. In fact, there are so many different awards available out there that I cannot list them all here! All you have to do is look around and apply yourself. With the right effort, even the poorest person can go to college and succeed!

This article is penned by Lora Davis for Scholars Hub Africa a fast growing organization that is helping African students gain access to quality education in Africa and around the world.