Google Chrome is the recommended web browser for AwardSpring. The application can be found HERE in December.
- Use a personal email address you use frequently to set up your AwardSpring account. Email is our main form of communication with applicants. Avoid using a school email account because enrollment restricts access.
- Organize yourself before you begin the application.
- First, make a list of your activities, awards, and community service. Keep it somewhere convenient so you can easily add to it when something comes to mind.
- Next, decide who you want to obtain a recommendation from and reach out ASAP to ask if they’d be willing. You should provide the person with a resume or a list of activities and academic information. It’s best to select someone who knows you in an educational or professional capacity. We do not consider co-workers, colleagues, or peers as legitimate sources for a recommendation.
- Work on your personal statement/essay. Even if you’re unsure what to write, jotting down ideas or topics you’re passionate about is helpful. The Lauzier Scholarship provides essay prompts for the student to choose from. You can always tweak the content of your essay depending on what the application is asking for.
- Obtain a current official transcript when it becomes available, depending on the application requirements. (see more details below.)
- Pay attention to our policy regarding the use of AI. We will not accept essay responses generated by AI. You may use tools for spelling, punctuation, and to polish sentence structure. However, the content must come from you, the individual.
- Correct spelling and punctuation throughout the application is key. From proper capitalization on your name and address, to the quality of the writing in your essay, every detail counts.
- Type information neatly. Enter multi-line answers in an orderly format. Keep your answers clear and concise.
- Take every opportunity to share information about yourself within the application where applicable. While we value recommendations, sometimes we learn more about a student from the recommender than we do from the applicant. For example, a student participated in activities or held a leadership position, but then left that section blank. We only know as much as you’re willing to share with us. Use your own voice rather than hope someone else speaks for you.
- Essay tips:
- AI is fine for checking spelling, grammar, punctuation, and improving sentence structure, but we aren’t interested in computer-generated responses. We want to know your authentic thoughts and to learn more about who you are as a person. Keep that in mind when you write your essay. The content must be your own.
- Type your essay in a separate program, such as Word, then copy and paste it into the application.
- Stay on topic.
- Be authentic.
- Proofread!!! Have someone else look over your writing before you submit.
- Make sure to attach all pages of your current transcript. Give yourself plenty of time to obtain a CURRENT OFFICIAL transcript. An unofficial transcript is not acceptable and will disqualify the application. We require first term grades from the current academic year. These transcripts are typically not available until winter of this school year. You can get everything else completed, but wait to submit the application until you have a transcript with grades from the fall term of the current school year.
- Submit a current recommendation as requested. Alumni applicants must submit a new recommendation with each application. As mentioned before, be sure to contact your recommender as soon as possible to allow plenty of time to get it done. Co-workers and colleagues are not considered a legitimate source for a recommendation! If you choose an employer, then it must come from a boss or supervisor.
- Don’t stress! Get help from someone you trust or contact info@lauzier.org if you have questions. The Lauzier staff is always available to assist students with the application process.
There are many scholarship opportunities available throughout your community. Your educational pursuits inspire funders of all kinds to help you achieve your dreams. Check with your school’s counseling center for a list of application links and due dates. Also, reach out to any colleges or vocational schools you’re interested in, or currently attending, as many provide their own scholarships. Resources and opportunities are abundant if you take the time to find them, so get out there and start applying!