As the Hereford Youth Foundation of America (HYFA) fall scholarship deadline is fast-approaching, we encourage each National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) member to apply for the scholarship offerings available. While filling out those scholarship applications, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Your application

• Understand the requirements of the scholarship and identify how you represent that scholarship
• Tailor your application to reflect the scholarship’s requirements — it’s okay to use specific words and short phrases from the scholarship requirements in your answers!
• Elaborate in your remarks — as your English teacher says, “Show, not tell!”
• Show your knowledge and experience by including specific details in answers — avoid generic statements
• Include involvement in industry, community, state and national associations — being well-rounded is important

Recommendation letters

• Show enthusiastic support of the applicant
• Indicate in-depth understanding of the experience and dedication of the candidate
• Relate specifically to the scholarship of interest

Presentation during interviews

• Talk slow, smooth and clear
• Have a strong/confident presence and make eye contact
• Dress to impress
• Show your passion, be yourself
• Start and end with a solid hand shake
• Be prepared — bring extra copies of your supporting documents (application, resumé, etc.)

Answering questions

• Study the scholarship ahead of time to properly answer questions on scholarship
• Expand on answers to questions that are asked — this is your chance to elaborate on details from your application
• Provide confident and clear answers to questions
• Always use correct and appropriate grammar
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions that can expand your presence and understanding — write down at least two questions about the scholarship and bring them to the interview

For more information on fall scholarships and to apply, visit Hereford.org/youth/scholarship-opportunities/.