<p>Yep, focus on your GPA, do some prep work and get that ACT score up . . . and then apply to schools where you’d be eligible for merit aid. Better use of your time with a more predictable and tangible result. There are schools that guarantee merit aid to students with certain stat’s. See [url=<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/financial-aid-scholarships/848226-important-links-automatic-guaranteed-merit-scholarships.html]here[/url”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/financial-aid-scholarships/848226-important-links-automatic-guaranteed-merit-scholarships.html]here[/url</a>].</p>
<p>If you want to go after private scholarships, look for local donors or donors who have a particular interest in an activity you’re already involved in. You’ll have a better shot that way.</p>