2016

Sorry that I have been away for so long.  Have been dealing with a couple of losses, but I am back to blogging on a daily basis.

My hope is that 2016 will be a happy and productive year for all of you.

End of the semester.

Just a reminder to all of my students.  There are three weeks left for my lecture class and four weeks left for the online class.  For all intent and purposes, the semester is over.  Please DO NOT wait very much longer to get your portfolios in.  Remember that your grade for the class is determined by your portfolio.  The portfolio is a determining factor for submitting winning scholarship applications.

$1800 CASH/Deadline November 15, 2015 @ Midnight

The Soroptimist Clubs of the Desert (Live Your Dream Scholarship) are anxiously awaiting your applications.  You have a little more than a week to submit your materials. Ladies, this is a cash scholarship!!!  I could sure use an extra $1800 right now.  Couldn't you?? Email me if you need any assistance with completing this.  If you are in my class and you meet the eligibility requirements, it is critical that you participate.

Live Your Dream DEADLINE VERY SOON

Do Not Miss This Opportunity!!
This fabulous scholarship for women who have the financial responsibility for others (child, mother/father, spouse, relative) has a deadline in 10 days.  This is a cash award which can be used for other necessities.  It is not exclusively for tuition and fees.  This is for over $1500.  Act quickly. 

Access for Scholly

In order to register for Scholly, you need to click the following:

https://www.myscholly.com/register

Tungsten Rings Scholarship Contest

$1,000  Deadline:  December 8, 2015
Tungsten Wedding Rings Scholarship
Eligibility:
Attending an accredited college/university for 2015-2016
This requires you to make a 2 plus minute YouTube

http://www.tungstenrings.com/scholarship/

Happiness Now

Who do you know who is truly happy?  Are you?

New Website for You

I recently heard about a scholarship site (www.scholly.com) that guarantees that all of the scholarships that they recommend will fit your profile.

I am in the process of purchasing codes for the students who are registered in my two classes. The codes are specifically for the individual.

Should you be interested in registering, there is a one time charge of $.99 for one time use.  For multiple uses, the fee is $2.99.

I will be personally checking it out this weekend, but you might want to give it a look.

High School Students !!!!! $250,000

From now until October 7, Khan Academy and Breakthrough Prize are seeking video submissions that explain a challenging and important concept or theory in mathematics, life sciences, or physics. If you're between 13 and 18, and have a passion for explaining ideas and concepts creatively, you can enter the Breakthrough Junior Challenge.

Great prizes to be won!

• $250, 000 scholarship for you.
• $50,000 award for your teacher.
• State of the Art $100,000 science lab for your school

The winner will also be invited to the televised red carpet 2016 Breakthrough Prize ceremony in California, where the prize will be awarded of the superstars of science, Silicon Valley, and Hollywood.

You can find all of the details at :

www.breakthroughjuniorchallenge.org

This Scholarship is For All Women/Head of Household

Live Your Dream (Soroptimist Scholarship)

Are you financially responsible for:

1.  Children ?
2.  Nieces or nephews ?
3.  Disabled husband ?
4. Mother and/or Father ?
5. Relatives?

This is a fabulous scholarship for you to consider !!  The amount could be from $1,200 to $1,800.
The good news is that it is a cash award which is not limited to paying for tuition and books.  You can pay rent, buy food or shoes or any other necessity.

A number of my students win this award every year.  The deadline is coming up in about six weeks so don't let this one slip by you.

If you have any questions, please email me at (eandrews@dc.rr.com) 

7 Rules of Life

(Taken from Ric and Liz Thompson of Healthy Wealthy n Wise)

"7 Rules of Life"

1)  Make peace with your past so it won't mess up the present.
2)  What others think of you is none of your business.
3)  Time heals almost everything, give it time.
4)  Don't compare your life to others and don't judge them.  You have no idea what their journey is
     about.
5)  Stop thinking too much -  it's all right not to know the answers.  They come to you when you least 
     expect it.
6)  No one is in charge of your happiness, except you.
7)  Breath.  All the problems in the world aren't yours.

Make a Difference

The power each of us has to make a difference in this world begins when each of us believes that we can make a difference.

To put it in another way . . . everything begins with changing ourselves FIRST.

I think Eleanor Roosevelt said it best, "It is not fair to ask of others, what you are unwilling to do yourself."

(Taken from the Life Secrets Newsletter.)

Quotes for the Day

"I have been impressed with the urgency of doing.  Knowing is not enough; we must apply.  Being willing is not enough: we must do."

--Leonardo da Vinci

Stop & Get Organized

I have found that when life seems as though it is getting out of control, stopping for a day to organize my surroundings puts me back on track.

A few tips to consider:

1.  Make your bed every morning.
2.  Pick up your wet towels after you shower.  Shake them.  Hang them up.
3.  Wipe the wash basin after you brush your teeth.  It just takes seconds.
4.  Gather all of your dirty clothes and put it in the wash basket.
5.  Rinse your breakfast dishes and place them in the dish washer.

The above chores should be done every morning before you leave for school.

Organization will be continued.  Stay tuned.

$2,000 No Essay Scholarship - Niche

Deadline Sept 30th
Super easy. Anyone can win.

The $2,000 "No Essay" Scholarship is open to all students and those planning on enrolling within 12 months.  The monthly winner will be determined by random drawing and then contacted directly and announced on the Facebook page.  One entry per person, but you can come back each month to try again.

https://colleges.niche.com/scholarships/

Queen Scheherazade Scholarship Pageant 2015

In 2014, one of my students won as a princess and her prize was $3,000.  The deadline is 5:00 p.m. is usually in October.

Full 4-Year Scholarships for High School Students

Questbridge National College Match  partners with specific universities to serve low-income students.
Do you have a student, who is a junior in high school, wanting to transfer to a four-year university during the fall of his senior year?
Successful applicants usually fulfill these characteristics:

• They are in the top 5% or 10% of their class.
• They have received mostly A's grades in the most rigorous classes.
• They have scored  >1250 (Critical Reading + Math) on the SAT or  > 27 (Composite) on the ACT.
• Their household income is less then $60,000 a year, and often less than $50,000 a year for a typical family of four.
• Often they are among the first generation in their family to attend college.
• They are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch.

In order to be successful Questbridge applicants must meet both academic and financial criteria.

www.questbridge.org

You Are What You Think About

A little motivation.

Quote for Today

"Give people a fact or an idea and you enlighten their minds; tell them a story and you touch their souls."
~Hasidic proverb

Varsity Tutors Scholarship

Win a scholarship worth $1,000
 Contest ends September 30, 2015
http://www.varsitytutors.com/scholarship_entrants/new

Old Friends

Remember that the most valuable antiques are dear old friends.
----H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

FREE Scholarship Workshop on September 5th!!

On September 5th, I will be giving a one hour  scholarship presentation at Barnes and Noble at Westfield Mall.  Everyone is welcome, but I am targeting high school students and their parents.

Seating will be limited so please email me at eandrews@dc.rr.com to let me know if you are interested in attending.

The response will  determine the hour so, please let me know if you are interested.

Check These Out (One is for $10,000)

There are several scholarships in this site.  No applications to fill out or essays to write, but, obviously, the competition will be greater.  You may be the lucky one!!

www.scholarshipguidance.com

Live Your Dream (Soroptimist Scholarship)

Deadline:  November 15, 2015
Eligibility Requirements:
You are eligible if you are a woman who:
1.  Provides primary financial support for yourself and your dependents.  Dependents can include children, spouse, partner,siblings and/or parents.
2.  Has financial need.
3.  Is enrolled in or has been accepted to a vocational/skills training program or an undergraduate degree program.
4.  Is motivated to achieve your education and career goals.
5.  Has not previously been the recipient of a Soroptimist Women's Opportunity or Live Your Dream Award.
6.  Does not have a graduate degree.
7.  Is not a Soroptimist member or an employee of Soroptimist International of the Americas or an immediate family member of either.
8.  Has a Social Security number or a Tax ID number.  (Only for residents of the United States.

eandrews@dc.rr.com

Girl Friend Factor

Deadline December 15, 2015

http://girlfriendfactor.org

This is an excellent source for college money, but be sure that you are giving your essay some thought.  You are trying to convince the judges that you are the most deserving applicant. If your essay sounds like everyone else's, you won't stand out.  What can you do to make the reader say "WOW" when they read your essay?

Deadline for the Democratic Women of the Desert (Guys & Non Democrats Welcome)

Deadline is Friday, November 06, 2015

Democratic Women of the Desert (2016 College Education Scholarship)

This year a Veteran's Scholarship has been added.  Being a Democrat or a woman is not part of the criteria for being awarded this scholarship.
There are five $500 scholarships  You might want to start doing some research on the topic of the essay which is:
Describe the activities, actions and beliefs that demonstrate your level of commitment to equal rights.

Email me for a copy of the application.

eandrews@dc.rr.com

Scholly. This is a Great Mobile App !!...

Check the apps on your cellphone.
You are going to love this site.

If you are tired of completing profiles on sites such as Fastweb and not getting many scholarships that fit your profile,  Scholly is the answer.  They guarantee that all of the scholarships that are submitted will fit your profile.

Check it out.  Please do me a favor and send me an email or leave a comment  on your response to Scholly.

On your cellphone apps, just enter Scholly.

My email:  eandrews@dc.rr.com

Scholar Snapp Technology

This is worth your attention!

Scholars Snapp Central allows applicants to create and download their unique Scholar Snapp profile, search for qualifying scholarship opportunities, and upload their Scholar Snapp profiles where organizations have made the import process available.  

Effectively, an applicant can reuse a large amount of their profile data from application to application speeding up the time it takes to complete a scholarship application.

The Scholar Snapp Central website allows for an applicant to:

(1)  Create a profile

(2)  Download/email their profile as an SDS file

(3)  Find matching scholarship opportunities

(4)  Get connected with scholarship providers who accept Scholar Snapp

https://www.scholarsnapp.org

Looking for Money for College??

Have you tried CROWD FUNDING???

Try Pigit


www.pigit.com

Upromise Scavenger Hunt Sweepstakes

Grand Prize $10,000
Daily Prizes $1,000
Enter today and everyday day until August 16th.

contestgirl.com/contests/sweepstakesDetail.pl?index=344522


Sponsor: Upromise, Inc., 85 Wells Avenue, Suite 110, Newton, MA 02459
Membership is Free

Dog Quote

"Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies."

Avery and His Ball

This is Avery -- my five year old Wheaten Poodle.

Classes Start on August 31, 2015

Time to start thinking about returning to school.  Classes at the California Community Colleges start on August 31, 2015.

Did anyone get started on setting up their scholarship portfolio?

This semester, I will be teaching two scholarship classes.  The online class starts on August 31st and the face to face class starts on September 22nd.  The online class closed weeks ago, but I am planning on developing my own scholarship class via Canvas.  It may be a couple of months before it is ready. In the meantime, I'd like to get some indication of interest.  Please email me if you think that you might want to participate. (eandrews@dc.rr.com)  More than likely, there will not be a fee for tuition, but you would need to purchase the scholarship packet. 

Dining with Avery

The new book arrived yesterday.

Avery, my five year old Wheaten-Poodle, shares his dining adventures at pet friendly restaurants in  the Desert Cities.

For more information and purchasing, please email me at eandrews@dc.rr.com

Quote for the Day

"Be who you are and say what you feel.  Because those that matter, don't mind, and those that mind, don't matter."
--Unknown

Did you miss me??

Sorry for not posting for the last two weeks.  I have been busily writing.  My new book Dining With Avery must be ready for the printer in the next few weeks and I am racing with the clock.

Your Scholarship Portfolio

Your scholarship portfolio is a critical part of applying for scholarships.  Searching for scholarships is the easy part of the process.  Having all of your documents, letters of recommendation, and several versions of your personal essay ready in your portfolio will avoid missing deadlines.  

Now that you have submitted at least three requests for Letters of Recommendation and have all of your required documents filed in your portfolio, it is time to start working on your first Personal Essay.

My next post will start you on the journey of creating the MOST important document in your scholarship application -- your Personal Essay.

Start brainstorming about why you deserve to win a scholarship.  Next time I will give you some ideas. 

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of Recommendation are the second most important documents in your scholarship application packet.  It is critical to start immediately requesting your endorsement letters.  There is a very specific process that you should complete.  Please refer to the following:

1. Start off with a verbal request. "Do you feel comfortable writing a wonderful letter of recommendation on my behalf"?
2. Prepare a scholarship request packet.  You will need:

• Two white envelopes (9 X 12)
• Formal letter requesting a letter of recommendation.  (Sample in the book and/or on my website in the downloads.)
• Copy of the Guidelines for Writing a Letter of Recommendation.  (Sample on my website in the downloads.)
• Completed Scholarship Resume.  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
• Completed Personal Data Form  (Complete on my website and then print it out.)
• A copy of your current unofficial transcripts.
• Self address one of the 9 X 12 white envelopes.  Fold the envelope in half and include with all of the above documents.
• Address your other white envelope.
• Deliver or mail the request for a recommendation packet to the professor, counselor or other professional.
• Allow two weeks for a your Letter of Recommendation.
• When you receive your letter, write a thank you note immediately.
• Enclose some small token like a bookmark, post-its or even a candy bar to show your appreciation.
• You may need to do follow up a few times.

Remember that you will need a minimum of three Letters of Recommendation.  You will need to update them every year or two.

Documents Needed When Applying for Scholarships

Although you may not need all of the documents listed below, it is a good idea to have all of them neatly filed in your Scholarship Portfolio.  Remember that "Organization is the Key to Success". The important reason for having your portfolio complete is so that you can apply for scholarships in a timely fashion and NOT miss deadlines.  

Documents:

1. Driver's License or a DMV ID Card
2. Social Security Card
3. Birth Certificate
4. Passport
5. Alien Registration Card
6. Unofficial Transcripts
7. Official Transcripts (at least one copy).  Remember it needs to be updated every semester or quarter.
8. SAT Scores (if you have them)
9. High School Transcripts (especially if you have just graduated).
10. Head Shot Photo (a selfie is usually NOT adequate).

Be sure that you keep your documents in a very safe place --identity theft is no fun.

Summer and Scholarships

Summer is the PERFECT time to work on scholarships.  Be sure that your portfolio is in order.  Do you need more letters of recommendation? Can you rewrite your essay(s) to make them even better? Do you have all of the necessary documents?  Your documents should be copied in color.  Do you need to purchase materials?  Check your present supply of the following:

1. Organizer sheets -- you can download from my website (www.findingmoneyforcollege.com)
2. Updated calendars -- available on your computer (Publisher).  Use the UNDERSTATED format.
3. Extra sheet protectors
4. 9 X 12 WHITE envelopes
5. Extra copies of Guidelines for Writing Letters of Recommendation -- my website
6. Extra copies of Status Sheets -- my website
7. Update your Personal Data sheet -- my website
8. Update your Scholarship Resume -- my website
9. Perfect your Professional Resume
10. Update your professional resume worksheet on your computer.
11. Purchase professional looking Thank You Notes.

Disappointment for Avery

Although Avery was the popular vote winner and won close to a $1,000 in prizes for the Palm Springs Life Contest, he won't be on the cover of Palm Springs Life.  Apparently, that is a separate prize determined by PSL.  Just  like the voting process, the prize description took several readings by college graduates to fully understand.

Be Available for Scholarships

It is very important to be available when you have applied for scholarships.  Recently two students were selected to be winners of scholarships and they did not respond to phone calls or emails.  In the past students forfeited their awards to the next candidate.  Be sure you submit an email and phone number, but more importantly, be available to receive the message and respond.  IMMEDIATELY!!!

Success (Quote)

"There are no secrets to success.  It is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure."
--Colin Powell

Quotes of the Day

"If you are compassionate in your approach to all tasks in life, believing that all 'problems' contain valuable lessons, you will find peace of mind."
--Dr. Lee Jampolsky

"It's good to have money and the things money can buy, but it's good, too, to check once in a while and make sure that you haven't lost the things that money can't buy."
--George Horace Lormier

Go Girl ! Grant Spring Deadline

The Girl Friend Factor accepts scholarship applications twice a year.  The next deadline is July 15, 2015.
(This is for women 25+)        http://girlfriendfactor.org/go_girl.html

Mange Your Finances While in School-

Spend Within Your Limits:  Don't run out of money before the end of an academic term.  Try to avoid overusing credit cards, spend within your means and do not carry a balance.

Personal/Living Expenses:  If you live in campus housing, save money by using your meal plan instead of eating out.  For example, buying one "super duper" latte a day will cost you $3,360 by the time you graduate.

Transportation and Travel:  If you have a car, figure in gas, insurance, registration, maintenance and parking fees.  If possible, take advantage of the campus shuttle, public buses.  Rise a bike or consider carpooling.

Entertainment:  Prioritize your recreational activities and take advantage of free and low cost activities on campus.  Bands and comedians, local and well known, frequent college campuses.  As a student you can see many for free (or discounted with a student ID).

Books and Course Fees:  Budget for extra costs that can arise for a class or lab, as course fees can vary.  If possible, try to purchase used books and sell back your textbooks at the end of the semester! You may want to consider renting books or eBooks.  Always be sure you're purchasing the correct and current edition of a book.

--Taken from the Fastweb Student Bulletin

Knowledge vs. Wisdom

Graduation should mean that you have gained knowledge.  That knowledge should prepare you for a fulfilling career and it will eventually.  Your newly earned  degree is the key to opening the door, but remember that it is not until you have spent a number of years in your new career that you understand the subjects that you have studied.  With time you will gain wisdom, which is knowing how to effectively use what you have learned.

Remember:

"Knowledge is what you get from books.  Wisdom is what you get from life".

It is interesting to note that the graduation ceremony is referred to as commencement.  The word commencement means beginning not the end.  Your whole life is ahead of you--the wisdom is yet to come.

Graduation Thank You Notes

Being grateful has really been on my mind lately.  So many people assume that the world owes them a living and fail to acknowledge the kindness and thoughtfulness of others.  I have found that the more thanks I give everyday, the better I feel about myself and the more I continue to receive.

Many students here in the desert graduated from College of the Desert last Friday and I am sure that there were many flowers and gifts from family and friends.  You, undoubtedly, gave a verbal thank you, but was that enough? How many people took time from their lives to travel to your commencement?  How many people spent hard earned money to present you with something they thought that you would enjoy?  Don't you think that a written thank you note is in order?  A handwritten  note shows that you took the time to show that you appreciate.  It will make the recipient feel good and so will you.  What are you waiting for??  

Avery WON!!!

My little four legged, soft, silky Wheaten Poodle won the Pets on Parade 2015 contest.  The prize is two nights at a plush hotel in Newport Beach, dinner for two and a year's subscription to Palm Springs Life magazine. 

Of course, the most exciting part is yet to come.  He will be on the cover of the pet edition of the Palm Springs Life Magazine which comes out in August 2015.

My sincere thanks to everyone who took the time to vote for him -- the voting process was not a simple one.

I so appreciate your support.

Six Housecleaning Tips

The six don't's of cleaning:
1.  Don't:  Use vinegar on stone counters -- it can etch and damage materials like granite.
2.  Don't:  Mix bleach with ammonia (can be seriously dangerous).  It can produce a gas that can constrict breathing.
3.  Don't:  Use laundry stain remover on carpets.  It can leave a sticky residue.
4.  Don't:  Dust furniture with a dry rag.  It will just move the dirt around and scratch the finish.
5.  Don't:  Use bleach to clean rust.  It will actually set the stain.
6.  Don't:  Use dish soap to wash your car.  It is harsher on the paint than a car wash.
--House Beautiful Magazine

COD Graduates

Congratulations for successfully completing your program of studies here, at the College of the Desert.  You made it !!!!!  Best wishes as you continue your journey either to a new job or onto a four-year college.  New beginnings are a bit scary, but also very exciting.  Embrace all of the new opportunities to learn and to enhance yourself as an individual.

Quotes of the Day

"The past does not have a future, but you do".
--Byrd Baggett

"It is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich".
--Henry Ward Beecher

Letters of Recommendation and Thank You Letters

To my students who are just finishing my three classes, please remember to send a thank you letter or a thank you card to those who have taken the time to write a letter on your behalf.  It does take time and effort from a busy schedule to write a letter of recommendation.  The very least that you can do is to show your appreciation with a proper thank you.  A quickly submitted email does not cut it. Take it a step further and slip a nice bookmark, attractive post-its or even a candy bar in the envelope -- it warms the heart.   Everyone  welcomes thoughtfulness.

Quote

"If you have only one breathe left, use it to say thank you."
-Pam Brown

Thank You Notes

There was a time when hand written thank you notes were a rigorous part of our culture.  Through the years, Hallmark made the process simpler by creating beautiful cards with an appropriate verses. Even though it lacked the personal touch of a handwritten note, it became the acceptable norm.

Very quickly it is becoming a lost art and, it seems, that many people are forgetting to acknowledge the thoughtfulness of others.  At best, many will send off a hasty email and call it a day.

Sitting down with nice stationery with pen and ink in hand, took time and thought--it was a deliberate, considerate act.  More than likely, it made the recipient feel happy and appreciated.

It would be so nice if more people returned to some of the old niceties of life.  Sadly, we rush through our daily activities without giving much of ourselves to others.  Buy yourself a nice box of note cards and an ink pen.  Start letting people know that you care--it just might start enhancing your relationships.

Quote on Fear

"There would be nothing to frighten you if you refused to be afraid."
--Gandhi

Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Find out if you qualify for student loan forgiveness.  Call Now!!!  (888)451-8776

Go Girl Grants

The Girl Friend Factor scholarship is coming up.  If you are a woman 25+ this may be the financial opportunity for you to return to college or to complete your education.   Please google:  Go Girl Grants

Voting directions

The following are the directions (sorry that it is such a pain to vote):

1. http://contests.palmspringslife.com/engine/Welcome.aspx?contestid=166312
2. Register at Palm Springs Life
3. Pick a username and you will receive confirmation.
4. After you receive the confirmatiom, go back to the link.
5. Log in to vote.
6. Review the pets and look for Avery -- you will find a black and white pencil sketch  with his dreaming about being on the cover.
7. He is listed under canine - large
8. Vote
9. Be sure to save your vote or it won't submit.

I thank you and Avery thanks you.  Thanks for being persistent in a very difficult voting process.

I could use your vote!!

Avery has a chance of winning, but I need all of the votes that I can get. Be sure to save your vote.

http://contests.palmspringslife.com/engine/Welcome.aspx?contestid=166312

Essential Skills to Survive in Job Market

Now that you are graduating, it is time to polish your resume,  have an appropriate interview outfit and have the following marketable job skills:

1. Work Ethic
2. Physical Performance
3. Speaking
4. Writing
5. Teamwork
6. Influencing People
7. Research
8. Number Crunching
9. Critical Thinking
10. Problem Solving

Music to Enjoy

Enjoy!!

Application at Humboldt State

Application for Fall 2015 will close on May 11th.  If you are still interested in transferring to HSU this Fall, apply at www.csumentor.edu

More Precise Voting Directions for Palm Springs Life

The following are the directions (sorry that it is such a pain to vote):

1. http://contests.palmspringslife.com/engine/Welcome.aspx?contestid=166312
2. Register at Palm Springs Life
3. Pick a username and you will receive confirmation.
4. After you receive the confirmatiom, go back to the link.
5. Log in to vote.
6. Review the pets and look for Avery -- you will find a black and white pencil sketch  with his dreaming about being on the cover.
7. He is listed under canine - large
8. Vote
9. Be sure to save your vote or it won't submit.

I thank you and Avery thanks you.  Thanks for being persistent in a very difficult voting process.

Bill Gates -- 11 Rules You Will Never Learn in School

Study Music -- Studying Music and Concentration Music for Exam

Study Music -- Give it a Try

Some Tips for the Last Few Weeks

This the time of year when students, faculty and college support staff shift into high gear.  Everyone is so busy and nerves start to frazzle.  The following are some tips to survive the rest of the semester and for a number of you, to make it to graduation.

1. Go to all of the test preparation sessions that your professor offers.
2. Coordinate a study group.
3. Schedule your study time.
4. Make flashcards of your notes.  Carry the cards around with you.
5. Whenever you have a few minutes, pull out your cards and review them. It is the repetition that will help you to remember.
6. DON'T pull an all-nighter.  If you study everyday, it shouldn't be necessary.
7. If there is a concept you don't understand, meet with your professor.
8. Eat nutritious meals.
9. Go for a walk if you are feeling anxious.
10. Get enough sleep.
11. Being well rested before a final exam is critical.
12. Get a good protein breakfast on the morning of your final.
13. Take a small bottle of orange juice to drink just before your exam -- it will give you a quick boost.
14. Get to class early.
15. Try not to talk to anyone who is anxious  -- you might pick up the negative energy.
16. Take a few really deep breaths and believe that you will do well.

My Request for a Recommendation From You

Through the years I have happily written letters of recommendation.  Now, it is my turn to ask if you feel comfortable submitting a vote for my four year Wheaten-Poodle.  Avery (my dog) has been dreaming about being on the cover of Palm Springs Life -- refer to the image I submitted several days ago.
If you Google -- Pets on Parade 2015 and then register,  you can then cast your vote.  You will see the image (a black and white pencil sketch with his photo on the upper right).  The winner is selected by popular vote so Avery and I will be very grateful if you and ALL of your friends will vote for him.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority -- WINNER!!

Yolanda Gant from the Online Scholarship Class has won her first scholarship from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.  Yolanda made it a point to come in to see me several times and even came in for interview coaching.

In addition to having a completed portfolio with good a personal essay and letters of recommendation, you need to seek out all of the help that you can.  Remember that I am here to help you.  

Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship Winner!!!

As many of you may know, the JCK Scholarship is the Rolls Royce of Scholarships.  It is a very competitive national scholarship and I have worked with students for the last 16 years to submit their applications.

My dream has materialized. Todor Nikolov, a student from my 2012 Scholarship Class, has WON!! The scholarship is for $40,000 a year for up to three years.  He is the first student from College of the Desert to win.  CONGRATULATIONS, Todor!!!

Your Inspiration for Today

"Getting ahead in a difficult profession requires avid faith in yourself. That is why some people with mediocre talent, but with great inner drive, go much further than people with vastly superior talent."
~Sophia Loren


"Power is being aware of what one is choosing to do, feeling free to do it, and doing it intentionally. Power is freedom to choose with awareness and to involve ourselves in health-promoting and other activities. Power is how we participate in creating our reality."
~Dr. Gerald Epstein

Happiness -- Give it a Try

"The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here. The way to be happy is to make others so."
~Robert G. Ingersoll

AfterCollege Succurro Scholarship $1,000 (It is a NOW award)

Deadline:  June 30, 2015 (11:59)

AfterCollege, Inc is a job and internship resource, their scholarships are for students who will be exemplary candidates in their field when the time comes to find an internship or job.  This means that they evaluate applicants with the eye of hiring a manager, so watch your grammar, check your spelling, put your best accomplishments forward and you may get paid for thinking about your future!

Eligibility Requirements:

• Open to currently enrolled students in an accredited program.
• Working toward a degree (AA, AS, BA, BS, MA, MS, MFA, PhD, MD, JD,, etc.)
• Any major
• Minimum GPA 2.5

https://www.aftercollege.com/company/aftercollege-inc/10/scholarship/86/?source=ur-sch-succurro

Father Edward Donovan Memorial Scholarship $2,000

Deadline:  May 15, 2015 (by 5:00 p.m.)

This scholarship awards one undergraduate student a $2,000-dollar scholarship and an opportunity to undertake a paid summer internship with CVHC (Coachella Valley Housing Coalition).  Award selection is based on the student's demonstrated leadership qualities and commitment to community service.  Past recipients are not eligible.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. You or your parent(s)/guardian(s) must be residents of a CVHC housing community (house or apartment).
2. Be a farmworker or come from a farmworker household.
3. Be accepted or matriculated at a community college, university, or vocational school.
4. Maintain a 3.0 GPA or better.
5. Have accumulated 40 or more volunteer community service hours in the last 12 months.
6. Provide Letter of Verification from the organization/agency with which you volunteer.

www.cvhc.org

Margo Scholarship for Scholarship Class Students

Please note:
In order to qualify for this scholarship, you must be currently enrolled in the class.  If you dropped the class recently, you are no longer eligible.

OK to Eat at Night -- Snack # 9

No-Bake Honey Peanut Butter Cookies

These simple to make no-bake cookies contain the great flavor combination of peanut butter and chocolate, along with a little hint of sweetness from the honey.  The addition of oats adds a punch of fiber and plant protein that makes them very satisfying.  

Recipe:

Combine the following ingredients in a bowl:

2 1/2 cups rolled oats

1/3 cup natural peanut butter

3 Tbs honey

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Mix thoroughly and then use a muffin tin as the mold to form the cookies

This recipe works really well with miniature muffin tins as well.  It makes about eight 250-calorie cookies -- so one tin is more than enough.

Tip:  To cut down on calories, you can make 16 cookies instead.

Margo's Scholarship2015

Steve Jobs Stanford Graduation 2008

As a career counselor, my message to you is to do what you love.  You need to follow your passion.

OK to Eat at Night #8

Pumpkin Seeds:

The hallmark of a good nighttime snack is a food that will help fulfill a nagging craving while at the same time help you relax, unwind and get ready for bed.  Roasted pumpkin seeds meet this challenge. One serving of pumpkin seeds contains almost 50% of your recommended intake of magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral that is used in over 300 reactions of the body.  One key area that magnesium addresses is relaxation.  Magnesium is a relaxant and high magnesium snacks are ideal for helping you unwind at night.  The slight saltiness of roasted pumpkin seeds curbs your salty snack craving that is usually reserved for potato chips. Next time you want to snack on something while watching your favorite TV show, reach for a quarter cup of roasted pumpkin seeds.

COD Students/Drop Date April 24th

COD Students:  Remember that tomorrow is the last day to drop semester long classes.

Scholarship for 10th-12th Graders ALSO College & Non-Traditional Students

http://www.jumpstart-scholarship.net/

College JumpStart Scholarship Program
Deadline:  October 17, 2015

This is an annual, merit-based competition -- financial need is not considered -- that is open to 10th - 12th graders, college students and non-traditional students.  The main  requirement is that you are committed to going to school and can express your goals for getting a higher education.  The first place is a $1,000 Scholarship to help cover educational expenses.  This award can be used at any college and university in the United States.

Attitude is Everything

Start thinking positively and good things will begin to happen to you.

OK to Eat at Night -- Snack #7

Frozen Blueberries:

The cold sweetness of frozen blueberries is very refreshing at the end of the day.  Frozen blueberries are packed with just as many high-powered antioxidants as their fresh counterparts, because they are flash frozen at peak ripeness.  Blueberries are one of the best foods that you can eat for your health. Research has shown that the nutrients in blueberries can help improve brain function and heart health. If your diet can afford the extra calories, adding 2 Tbs of cream adds to the richness and sweetness of the treat. 

OK to Eat at Night -- Snack #6

Dark Chocolate:

Chocolate is often seen as forbidden food -- but not all chocolate is created equal.  There is a big nutritional difference between your average convenience store chocolate candy and cacao-rich chocolate.  The dark chocolate lacks the high added sugar content of traditional chocolate and instead provides you an antioxidant punch that has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve insulin sensitivity, fight inflammation and improve your mood.  Next time you need to wind down at night, have an ounce of your favorite dark chocolate (70% cacao or greater).

Mistakes are lessons to be learned.

Motivation for today:

Extract the jewel from your mistakes.  Think of a recent mistake that you made, and pretend that it was a direct gift from the power above.  If so, what was the lesson?  We make mistakes because it demonstrates that we still have more learning to do in this lifetime.  Take the valuable lesson you have learned from your mistake and apply its wisdom to successfully reaching your goal.

--Little Book of Big Motivation by Eric Jensen

The ExxonMobil Russian Scholars Program

Who should apply?

Citizens of Russia who have a Bachelor's degree in Geosciences with an interest in pursuing a Master's degree in this field are encouraged to apply.  Though applicants do not need to be currently residing in Russia, they must demonstrate Russian citizenship

Where is it?

The program provides full funding for applicants to pursue a Master's degree in the field of Geoscience at a university in the United States of America or the United Kingdom.

What is included?

Recipients will receive full tuition, housing and living expenses, medical insurance, textbook and computer allowances.  The award also includes transportation to the U.S. or UK at the beginning and conclusion of the program, visa and academic support and an  intensive orientation period.

Please Note, the application period is currently closed, but the following is the contact information:

Exxon Russian Scholars Program

Institute of International Education

1800 West Loop South

Suite 250

Phone: +1 832 .369 .3490

Fax:  713 .621 .0876

E-mail:  exxonmobilscholars_russia@iie.org

Imagine Cup Games Competition -- $50,000

Deadline:  July 31, 2015
Available to:  College Freshman through Graduate Students, Year 5

The Imagine Cup Games Competition is available to students with an interest in video game design.

To enter the contest you, or your team, must submit a desktop or tablet game using Windows, or a mobile game using Windows Phone, or a browser game using Windows Azure.  Games can support multiple languages as long as English is represented and be no bigger than 500MB to be eligible entries.

Get more information on the Imagine Cup Games Competition 

OK to Eat at Night -- Snack #5

High-Protein "Cake Batter":

Everyone loves batter - the delicious creamy and rich consistency is coveted by dieters everywhere, But this indulgence doesn't need to be off-limits.  Here is a high-protein version that will satisfy the strongest late-night cravings and it packs in the protein!

Recipe:

• Use 1 1/2 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 3 tbsp heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice
• Combine in bowl and mix with a fork until thoroughly mixed.
• Add 1 - 2 Tbs of water as needed to reach the desired consistency.

  

OK to Eat at Night --Snack #4

BCAA Slushy:

A slushy is a classic childhood treat, but as adults we may tend to avoid these high-sugar concoctions laden with questionable food dye.  Here's a better, no added sugar version that contains branched amino acids (BCAA), which can help decrease muscle soreness and stimulate muscle growth.

Recipe:

• Mix  10 grams of flavored BCAA powder
• In 4 oz. water until completely dissolved.
• Add BSAA mixture to a blender with 2 cups of ice.
• Blend until ice is crushed to desired consistency.
• Pour into a bowl and enjoy with a spoon.

Need Your Help

I am entering Avery, my 4 year old Wheaten-Poodle in a contest at Palm Springs Life and need as many votes as possible. If you feel comfortable doing so, I welcome your vote. Please go to Palm Springs Life 'Pets On Parade' 2015 contest.  This is what the entry looks like:

Received an email from Palm Springs Life  that I will be notified  IF THE ENTRY IS APPROVED.  I am guessing that the sketch may not be considered a photo even though his photo is in the bubble.

See What Happens When Dogs Go to Prison

If you are a dog lover, you must watch this!

Win a St. Lucia Island Getaway

DEADLINE :  April 26, 2015

One lucky winner (and guest) will receive 3 nights stay at Jade Mountain Resort, roundtrip airfare, breakfasts and dinners for two, and $250 in Scoutmob credit to get everything you need for your weekend getaway.  When you return, you'll have a year's worth of Bliss spa pampering waiting for you.

http://c.scoutmob.com/stlucia?referrer=stlucia-rs

What Your Handwriting Says About You?\

What did you discover?  Was it accurate?

Scholarships & Social Security Numbers

Recently, I posted a scholarship which was from the Bruce Lee Foundation--they are located in Los Angeles and it looked like a good resource for many of my students.  The only drawback was that it required a social security number. 

I wrote an email to the foundation expressing my concerns about potential identity theft, and immediately received a very nice email reassuring me that an applicant would not be rejected for not submitting that information.

The IMPORTANT thing to remember is to include a note expressing your concerns and, whenever possible, contact the organization for advice.

Should you be applying for the Bruce Lee Scholarship, feel free to contact (richard@brucelee.com) if you have any questions. 

OK to Eat at Night -- Snack # 3

Strawberry Banana "Ice Cream"

Ice cream is a great late-night treat, but with a half cup packing almost 200 calories, this treat becomes off-limits fast.  A great alternative to traditional ice cream is to make it with frozen bananas. Mashed frozen bananas provide an ice-cream-like consistency without the added sugars, fat and calories.

Recipe:

• Slice up 2 very ripe bananas and 1 cup of strawberries.
• Once, frozen, place strawberries and bananas in a food processor and process on high until an ice cream-like consistency is achieved--voila, vegan ice cream.

Did You Know That Many Scholarships are Requesting a Professional Resume?

I have been noticing that a number of scholarship applications are requiring a professional resume. Are you prepared?  Would you recognize a professional resume?  I am interested in hearing your evaluation of the following:

Charles Smith, CPA

123 Monadnock Road

Newton, MA 02167

Harvard BA 1986*

Harvard MBA 1988*

*Graduated top 15%

1988 to 1991

Brown, Gray and Co.

Big Six CPA firm

Achieved Senior Accountant status

In three years.

Is the above a resume?  Yes or No?  Why??

56 College Scholarships for International Students and Non US Citizens

These scholarships do not require applicants to be U.S. Citizens.

Google:  56 College Scholarships for International Students

"From Failure to Promise" Essay Contest $10,000

Deadline:  July 31, 2015

Available to:
High School Senior through Graduate Students

To be Considered:
Submit an essay of at least 1500 words that addresses the following three topics:
1.  Which tracks of the book "From Failure to Promise -- 360 degrees" presented the most important life lessons for you and why?
2.  Which factor was the most vital to the author's evolution in going from "flunk-out" to professor?
3.  How does the "Seven Spheres of Influence and Integration Model" affect your worldview as related to civic responsibility?

Note:  You can check the book out from a library.  No need to purchase.

OK to Eat at Night - Snack #2

#2 Raspberry Greek Yogurt Pops

If you buy them at the grocery store they're essentially sugar and food dye.  With this simple recipe for frozen Greek yogurt pops, you can do much better; it's a nutritional treat with minimal prep. Greek yogurt is regular yogurt's nutritionally superior sibling, with double the protein and half the carbs per serving.

Recipe:

• Mash 3/4 cup of raspberries in 2 cups of 2% plain Greek yogurt.
• Portion this mixture into popsicle molds.
• Place in the freezer for several hours until completely frozen.

Coming VERY Soon!!!!

Early yesterday morning, the doorbell rang and there waiting, as I opened the door, was the proof of my latest book, #Scholarships150Tips, which was written in hashtags.  The printer has been given the go ahead and within the next ten days, the book will be available to you.  I think you will like it -- it was a lot of fun for me to write and I can't wait to share it with you. 

PLEASE NOTE/Application Requesting SS#

I just noticed that the Bruce Lee Foundation Scholarship requires your social security number. Remember that, for security reasons, it is not a good idea to give out your social security number.  I have sent them an email requesting that they consider another form of identification.  Will let you know when I hear.

Graduate Scholarships

Merit
Eligibility:

• Be full-time, sophomore or beyond
• Be currently enrolled in an accredited 
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 ("B" average)
• Demonstrate community service and involvement

Deadline:

August 15, 2015


Financial Need
Eligibility:

• Be a full-time, sophomore or beyond
• Be currently enrolled in an accredited degree-granting institution
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 (C+ average)
• Demonstrate community service and involvement

Deadline:

August 15, 2015

Alice S. Marriott Scholarship Fund

Deadline: May 01, 2015
Undergraduate student
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Major in Hospitality Management or Hotel/Motel Management

OK to Eat at Night -- Snack #1

#1 Chocolate Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese

The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is one of the best flavors that exists.  This simple snack combines those two great flavors along with a creamy texture from cottage cheese.  In addition, it provides a high dose of casein protein.  Casein is the slower-digesting milk protein (whey being the other milk protein) which has been shown to boost recovery while you sleep when taken later at night.  

Recipe

In a bowl, combine:

2/3 cup of cottage cheese

1 tbsp of natural peanut butter

1/2 scoop of chocolate casein protein powder

2 tsps of dark unsweetened chocolate powder

Mix thoroughly and enjoy.

CollegeSTEPS Sweepstakes

Deadline: August 13, 2015
Available to:  High School Freshman through Graduate Students
Award Amount:  $1,000

www.wellsfargo.com/expandedcollegesteps

Heart of a Teacher

Mothers, Fathers, Aunts, Uncles, Grandmothers and Grandfathers are ALL teachers.  The Education of Character is the responsibility of all adults.  Teach by good example.

Scholarships at CSU San Bernardino (Palm Desert Campus)

Checkout all of the scholarships available to you if you are planning on attending CSUSB Palm

Desert Campus.

https://pdcCSUSB.edu/scholarships.HTML/

$10,000 Comeback Clothes Scholarship

Deadline:  May 31, 2015

The vast majority of fabric can be recycled, yet 85% of textiles made each year ends up in landfills.  That's 11.1 million tons, or the equivalent of over 70 Billion t-shirts.  Sign up for Comeback Clothes to collect old and worn out clothes in your school and communities and recycle them at your local H&M  store to help save precious resources.  Not only will you be making the world better, participants can earn a chance to win a $10,000 scholarship for school for every 50 pieces collected.  Submit a photo of the clothes you collected to be entered to win a $10,000 Scholarship.  Start here:  www.dosomething.org/clothes.  The more clothes you collect, the more entries you can earn.  No essay or minimum GPA required.

There is an H & M Store in Palm Desert:
72-840 Highway 111
Palm Desert, CA  92260

www.dosomething.org/clothes

WyzAnt College Scholarship $10,000

Deadline:  May 01, 2015  $10,000

The WyzAnt College Scholarship is available to students who plan to be enrolled in a four-year college or university sometime between August 1, 2015 and November 1, 2017.  To be considered, you must submit a 300-word essay about how your education has empowered you.  Finalist selection will be based on votes from your email and social media contacts.

Community Service

I am sure that I have already made reference to the importance of Community Service (volunteer work) when applying for scholarships.  Community Service is also very BIG when applying to transfer to a four-year college.  In addition, when you finally have your college degree and start applying for jobs, a record of community service will give you an edge.

Please Google, "366 Community Service Ideas" for a great list of suggested projects (activities) that you can do while you are a student. 

Tell Your Parents You Love Them

Before it is too late, tell your parents that you love them.

Videxport Scholarship

Videx S.A. de C.V. - $1,000.

Full time and part time undergraduate and graduate students attending a two-year or four-year institution.  Preference will be given to students who live in (originate from) Southern Arizona or Southern California, but may attend any HACU-member college or university.  Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 with a declared major in agriculture, ecological/environmental sciences.

Application deadline for Videxport S.A. de C.V.:  Friday, May 29, 2015

www.scholarships-2015.com/college/HACU/

Both College of the Desert and CSU San Bernardino are members of HACU

KIA Scholarship

KIA Motors America, Inc. - $4,000.

Full time undergraduate and graduate students attending a four-year  HACU-member institution within the United States, or Puerto Rico.  Open to all majors.  Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0   First Generation stuents are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application deadline for KIA Motors America, Inc:  Friday, May 29, 2015

Supporting documents (enrollment verification form and transcript) must be postmarked no later than May 29, 2015.

www.scholarships-2015,com/college/HACU?

Both College of the Desert and CSU San Bernardino are members of HACU

JC Penney Scholarship

JC Penney Leadership Excellence - $2,500

Full time undergraduate and graduate students attending four-year HACU-member institution within the United States, or Puerto Rico.  Students must possess a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Students majoring in Business, Retail, Supply Chain/Logistics and other relevant majors and who have experience working with the retail industry are also strongly encouraged to apply.

Application deadline for JC Penney:  Friday, May 22, 2015.  Supporting documents (enrollment verification form and transcript) must be postmarked no later than May 22, 2015.

www.scholarships-2015.com/college/HACU/

Both College of the Desert and CSU San Bernardino are members of HACU

Hungry for a scholarship?

As a thank you for visiting the HACU scholarship page, Denny's would like to offer students a free breakfast on their birthday and exclusive Denny's offers.  For a free Denny's Breakfast coupon, go to the HACU site.   Type in "Denny's free breakfast"  in the upper left corner.

www.scholarships-2015.com/college/HACU/

Review the Post on Tuesday, March 17.

Since we are working on Community Service, you might want to review the "Volunteer for Experience" video that I posted.

Snacks That Are OK To Eat At Night.

Eating after 8:00 p.m. gets a bad rap. But in reality, the reason you may have gained (or been unable to lose) weight probably has more to do with what you're eating and how much you're eating, rather than the time of day when you are eating it.  Eating at night, if done healthily, can offer surprising benefits.  Eating the right protein at night can help you build muscle while you sleep; eating low-glycemic carbs at night can help you control blood sugar the next day and even help you regulate your appetite.

I will be posting one snack a day for the next nine days --  looking forward to your checking in for the latest.

Fountainhead Essay Contest (Ages 16 -18) $10,000

Deadline:  April 26, 2015
This contest is open worldwide to 11th and 12th graders.
You must write an essay of no fewer than 800 and no more than 1,600 words on a topic relating to Ayn Rand's novel, "The Fountainhead."
Topics can be found on the sponsor's website

Get more information on the Fountainhead Essay Contest
www.aynrand.org/contests

College Tuition Tax Credits

What is a tax credit?

A tax credit is an amount that you're allowed to subtract from what you owe in taxes.  When you pay college costs, you can subtract a certain amount from your tax bill later on.  If your parents pay college expenses for you, they get the tax credit.

There are two different tuition tax credit programs.  The amount or the credit varies and is subject to a number of rules, depending on which credit you use, what you use the money for, and what area of the country you live in.  Your family may not claim more that one credit at a time.

American opportunity tax credit:

Families who owe very little tax or no tax (because their incomes are low) may be able to get some of the credit paid back to them directly.  Also, the credit can be applied to course-related books and supplies, in addition to tuition and fees.

Lifetime learning credit:

The money claimed must have been used for tuition and fees. This credit is available to undergraduate or graduate programs and for courses (even a single course) to acquire or improve job skills.  

If you haven't filed your taxes yet, these options might save you some money.  In any event, definitely looking  into.

The Oprah Magazine Contest

Enter for a chance to WIN $5,000
O's editors want your opinion of this issue:  the good, the bad, the "What were you thinking?!"  Take a fast and easy online survey, and you'll automatically be entered for a chance to win $5,000.

aprilsurvey.theoprahmag.com

JFM College Scholarship Fund Program 2015 Guidelines

Eligibility Requirements:

1. You and/or your parent (s)/guardian(s) must be residents of a CVHC housing community (house or apartment);
2. Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2:00;
3. Be accepted or matriculated at an undergraduate community college, university, or vocational/technical school.
4. Enroll in and complete full-time coursework (12 units) per academic term.
5. Recipients are required to provide evidence of enrollment and course registration in 12 units or more for the fall 2015 term and Spring/Winter 2016 term.

Deadline:  May 15, 2015

$250 to $1,000

www.cvhc.org

A.W. Bodine-Sunkist Memorial Scholarship

Scholarship Overview:

This scholarship is for students or family members of someone (parent, sibling, grandparent) who derives the majority of their income from California or Arizona agriculture. To qualify, applicants must be undergraduate college students pursuing a college degree, demonstrate financial need, and show potential success through GPA and extracurricular activities.

How much competition is there?

This scholarship won't have as many applicants as most.

Deadline: April 30, 2015    

Average award:  $2,000  This scholarship is renewable.

https://www.cappex.com/scholarship/listings/AW-Bodine-Sunkist-Memorial-Scholarship/-s-d-2296/