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The trick to finding a  

scholarship

  is to take a good look at yourself -- then see if there's a Scholarship that fits what's uniquely you. Start with a good scholarship search book, program, or Web site, and make finding the Money for College a full-time Job for a few weeks. Don't quit -- you'll be amazed at what turns up. Here are some other scholarship-snatchin' secrets:

1. Start early and treat looking for scholarships as if it were your job. Do as many scholarship searches as you can. Finding them is half the battle.

2. You'll need a resume on yourself to attach to the applications. List your grade point average (GPA), unusual or advanced courses, school and community activities, awards, hobbies, and work or volunteer experiences. Be honest, but don't be afraid to brag about yourself. You need to stand out.

3. Don't limit your options. Check on local, state, regional, national, and institutional scholarships, and ask local chapters of organizations (Rotary, Lions, Elks, etc.) if they offer any scholarships to local students.

4. Take a close look at scholarships based on difficult essays. Not everyone likes to write, so fewer people apply.

5. Treat every scholarship application special. Make the application neat and typed.

6. Complete a rough draft of your scholarship application first. Have both the rough draft and the final copy proofread by someone else.

7. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask the funding organization if you get completely confused. That's what they're there for!

8. Set up a time to talk with your counselor or adviser. Let her or him go over all your applications and sign them (if needed). Don't be afraid to take suggestions.

9. Follow directions precisely. Pay attention to deadlines. Don't be late with your applications.

10. Always keep a copy. Before sending the application, make a copy of the entire packet. If your scholarship application goes astray, you will be able to reproduce it quickly.

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