b'53A Word From Scholarship ProfessionalsWe asked these college access professionals for their perspectivesand advice on finding and applying for scholarships. Alexis Mercado Paying for Collegeis Assistant Director of Scholar Recruitment and Success with the Octavius Catto Scholarship at Community College of Philadelphia.I encourage all Philadelphia high school students to learn whetherthey qualify for the Octavius Catto Scholarship at CommunityCollege of Philadelphia. This program provides the extra assistance you might need to succeed in college, such as last-dollarfunding, enhanced coaching and advising, and support for food, transportation, and books. To qualify, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, be a Philadelphia resident for atleast 12 months, complete the FAFSA and document a StudentAid Index of 8,000 or less, enter college ready or one level belowThis program provides the extrain English and Math, and enroll as a full-time student. The Cattoassistance you might need to succeedScholarship is an excellent way to connect to your community! in college, such as last-dollar funding, enhanced coaching and advising,and support for food, transportation,and books. Destinee J. Harperis Associate Director of College Pathways at Heights Philadelphia and has guided many students on their scholarship application journeys.In my role, I work closely with various university admissions departments.One truth Ive learned is that applying for scholarships isnt just about grades or financial need; instead, its about telling your story. Think aboutwhat drives you. What have you overcome? How would this scholarship help you achieve your future goals? If you choose to reuse an essay for multiple applications, revise it carefully to reflect the values of each scholarship. Even small adjustments, like changing the introduction and conclusion, can make a huge difference. You should also highlight your leadership experience. Leadership doesnt always mean holding a title; its about telling your story. Think it can include raising siblings or working a part-time job to supportabout what drives you. What have youyour family. Lastly, dont forget, local scholarships often go unnoticed overcome? How would this scholarship and unclaimed. Dont underestimate the value of smaller awards,help you achieve your future goals? because they most certainly can add up.College Board Big Future Scholarship Students who complete the FAFSA earn an entry into monthly drawings for $500 and $40,000 scholarships.To enroll visit bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/bigfuture-scholarships/scholarship-details/complete-the-fafsa.'