What if there was a way to avoid spending an arm and a leg on college tuition? What if you were required to pay less for your higher education? What if I told you that there was a way to avoid the excessive spending and stress? There is: it’s called a scholarship.

Despite these obvious perks, many NKHS seniors neglect to apply for scholarships. The guidance office sends multiple emails to seniors with lists of scholarships, but some complain that these grants are not relevant to their lives, or simply do not want to bother with applying.

“They [scholarship organizations] take forever to get back to you. I wish they offered more money. Also, it’s annoying to have to bug teachers for letters,” said senior Katie Kershaw.

The process of applying for scholarships can be grating for already overwhelmed seniors, who often must write essays, fill out paperwork, and request letters of recommendation for the scholarship. In addition, many are irritated by the slow response of scholarship organizations. “I haven’t heard back from anyone. I just want to know, even if I didn’t get it,” said senior Emily Gagnon.

Students claim that the frustrations of applying are not worth the possible benefits, especially since many organizations offer small amounts of money. “The reason I never applied for scholarships is because I was never motivated to apply for them…it’s only a thousand dollars, it won’t make a dent unless I get a whole bunch of scholarships,” said senior Zachary Hinsvark. “So I never applied for them. It was foolish considering how many scholarships go unclaimed each year, which I feel is just a confidence issue for students in general.”

Financial issues, which prompt people to earn scholarships, can also dissuade seniors from applying. “I did not [apply for scholarships] because St. Lawrence gave me grant money, and if I got a scholarship, they could take the money away,” said senior Nicole Panek.

Many students fear that additional funds will affect their financial packages, and prefer to leave their monetary situations alone, rather than risk losing aid.

Despite the disadvantages and annoyances of applying for scholarships, many students try to earn scholarships to minimize the cost of their higher education. “I applied for scholarships not only to take the financial burden off my family and myself, but because I think that college ought to be enjoyed instead of being burdened by the guilt and weight of debt,” said senior Justin Cabot-Miller.

Scholarships, however scanty, can help pay for classes, books, and other resources that are essential for college students. Many seniors decide to apply, though they must handle the application process and know they may not receive the grant, because they believe every small bit of money will allow them to worry less about finances.

While many students have yet not heard back from scholarship organizations, a few seniors have recently received good news. “I applied for the North Kingstown Community Chorus scholarship that was offered to NKHS students going into music in college,” said senior Erin Alexander. “I was fortunate enough to be awarded the scholarship and they even asked me to perform at their spring concert, which was a lot of fun! I am really grateful towards the Community Chorus for this kind award and I am so happy I decided to give it a shot!”

Seniors must consider all aspects of their lives as future college students to determine whether or not they should apply for scholarships. While scholarships are beneficial for many, others feel as though a grant would affect them negatively.

In conclusion, applying for scholarships is important, especially for those who hope to reduce the amount of money spent on college. Students must consider their financial situation and remember that a few hours of work can help to lessen the fiscal burden of their higher education.