Destinee J. Harper
is Director of Institutional Partnerships 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 I’ve learned is that applying for  
scholarships isn’t just about grades or financial need; instead, 
it’s about telling your story. Think about what 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 
doesn’t always mean holding a title; it can include raising 
siblings or working a part-time job to support your family. 
Lastly, don’t forget, local scholarships often go unnoticed and 
unclaimed. Don’t underestimate the value of smaller awards,  
because they most certainly can add up.
“Don’t  
underestimate  
the value of 
smaller awards, 
because they 
most certainly  
can add up.”
Alexis Mercado
is Acting Director of the Octavius Catto Scholarship  
at Community College of Philadelphia.
I encourage all Philadelphia high school students to learn 
whether they qualify for the Octavius Catto Scholarship at 
Community College of Philadelphia. This program provides  
the extra assistance you might need to succeed in college,  
such as last-dollar funding, 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 at least 12 months, complete  
the FAFSA and document a Student Aid Index of 8,000 or less, 
enter college ready or one level below in English and Math,  
and enroll as a full-time student. The Catto Scholarship  
is an excellent way to connect to your community!
“This program  
provides the extra 
assistance you 
might need to 
succeed in college, 
such as last-dollar 
funding, enhanced 
coaching and 
advising, and 
support for food, 
transportation,  
and books.”
A Word From Scholarship Professionals
We asked these college access professionals for their perspectives  
and advice on finding and applying for scholarships.
Paying for College
55
 
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.
Pathways  
 to  Prosperity

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