Christmas parties, visiting with friends, enjoying Christmas dinner -- and preparing college and scholarship applications -- according to the Lyford Cay Foundations, that's what the winter break "to do" list should look like for Grade 12 students who aspire to go to college. While the break is a festive time for relaxing, college-bound students should be keenly aware that the break is an excellent opportunity to get ahead in preparation for a successful future.
Here are a few actions that the Foundations recommend for students:
o Finalize the list of colleges that you will apply to. Be sure you've identified multiple colleges that have strong programs in your field of study. Applying to more than one college gives you a better chance of being accepted.
o Finish your college application if you haven't done so already. Many colleges abroad have December or January deadlines.
o Volunteer with your favorite non-profit organization. It's a great way to broaden your experiences, help those in need and gain extra-curricular experience that you can highlight on your college application.
o Have an honest conversation with your family about finances. The cost of college continues to rise and even with scholarships, students and their families will need to plan on how they will contribute toward this life-changing investment.
o Start approaching teachers, counselors and former employers for references. All scholarship applications will require a reference. A good reference can be the difference between receiving a scholarship and being overlooked.
o Research scholarship opportunities and start gathering the information you'll need to apply. There are scholarships available to Bahamian students including scholarships from the Lyford Cay Foundations.
Visit www.lyfordcayfoundation.org for details on how to apply for an undergraduate scholarship to study out of the country. The Foundations' scholarship application is only available online and opens in January.
By putting these actions to work, Grade 12 students will ensure that they will have the best opportunity to get into college and ultimately pursue their career dreams.
About the Lyford Cay Foundation: Lyford Cay Foundation, Inc. and The Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation (the Foundations) are private philanthropic organizations established in 1969 and 1977, respectively. The Foundations' mission is to invest in learning opportunities for children, young adults, families and communities, all made possible by the generosity of donors. Through a variety of programs, the Foundations assist children in school as they prepare for college, students leaving school with scholarships to attend college in The Bahamas and abroad, and non-profits providing learning opportunities in their communities. To date more than $45 million has been invested in the lives of Bahamians.
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