Your Survival Guide to Applying to Scholarships and Grants

Coming from the first-generation Latina graduate herself, who has been there done that. Here are some tips and tricks that helped me navigate getting MONEY for school, with a cafecito on the side! 🤗 💕

1. Plan Ahead of Time 💕

I can't stress this enough! I get it, sometimes procrastination happens, because ✨LIFE✨ happens. But if you can, set up a schedule for yourself on when to research AND when to apply to upcoming scholarships. If you give yourself enough time to prep, you will have a much clearer headspace to write a STRONG application. ✍

2. Craft an Intro They Won’t Forget 🔥

Start your essay(s) with an attention grabbing short story, anecdote, quote etc.

For the quote try not to choose the cheesy ones. Instead, make sure they truly speak to your character & academic pursuits.

3. Stay Original 👩‍💻

Don't restate the prompt. The scholarship committee will feel like your essay(s) are mixing in with the rest of the applicants. 😭

4. Try Not to Trauma Dump too Much 👩‍💻

Our stories are important, and they help shape us to be who we are today. However, if your essay(s) don't have examples on how you have overcame challenging times, and what you plan to do to keep going, it might not be what the scholarship committee is looking for in an applicant. Also, I'm speaking from experience as someone who has spent a lot of time applying to funding!

5. Who Are You Talking To? 🤔

Know your scholarship audience. If you are applying to a nonprofit scholarship, brainstorm a method that will reference your academic success to the nonprofit's mission, & how it will support your future endeavors. 🤓

6. Take Breaks, & Go Outside ☀️

When I spend a lot of time staring at a computer screen, 💻 I start getting irritated. 🙃 That is not the best headspace to be in when applying to grants. So, take it from me, go outside, and spend some time away from technology.

🔺 You got this, keep applying, editing, and adjusting where needed. 🔺

Ps. If you are looking for more 1-1 & community based support, check out The Cafecito con

Estrellita Membership.

Abrazos 💕