Scholar Scoop
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How can students find scholarships, strengthen their applications, and fund their education?
In this episode of Scholar Scoop, Steve Loflin sits down with Jen Castillo, NSCS’s Director of Scholarships, Partnerships, and Advisor Experience. Jen brings more than 25 years of nonprofit management experience and shares practical advice on navigating the scholarship process.
Steve and Jen discuss how to search for scholarships, organize deadlines, write authentic essays, and make smaller awards count. They also explore how AI can support the application process without replacing a student’s own voice.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why students shouldn’t overlook smaller scholarships
- How to find scholarship opportunities and stay organized
- How to write essays that answer the prompt and reflect your experiences
- What to consider when using AI in scholarship applications
- How work, family responsibilities, and community involvement can demonstrate leadership
- Why students should ask for recommendation letters early
- How to protect personal information during scholarship searches
- Why rejection shouldn’t stop students from applying again
- Why relationships with recommenders and scholarship donors matter
Whether you’re a college student, parent, educator, or mentor, this conversation offers practical guidance for navigating the scholarship process.
