Tips for College Students to Win Farming Scholarships

For students who have grown up on a farm or whose families are embedded in agricultural industries, the idea of winning college scholarships for an education is an exciting idea. There are many schools and organizations throughout the country that offer farming scholarships to worthwhile applicants. In some parts of the country, such as the heartland, this is a critical step on the route to a college education. Many students plan for years around going away to school and coming home to run the family farm. There are many different factors that come into play for students hoping to earn farming scholarships. These are just a few of the considerations that will affect whether or not they have a reasonable chance at earning one.

Studying Agriculture

One of the most important aspects of consideration for farming scholarships is whether the university of choice has this major as an option. Equally important is whether the student has a chance to succeed in the field if given one of these career specific scholarships. For example, a student who has grown up on a farm and wishes to go to college and major in business or agriculture has a much better chance of earning a grant or scholarship than one who applies for it, but plans to be a professional football player or a doctor. Committees that make these determinations typically choose the students who have the most promise in advancing the field or have the greatest need. The student's potential may be seen in the form of good grades, experience, future goals, strong work ethic and drive.

Experience

Students who have spent years in the local 4-H club or who have joined the Future Farmers of America are likely to have experience in agricultural and farming projects. These should be outlined on a student's applications for college scholarships. For example, winning a blue ribbon at the county or state fair is an accomplishment that tells a scholarship committee the applicant has a knack for agriculture and hard work. Day-to-day living experiences are also an important part of a college scholarship essay. The daily routine of waking up and milking cows, watering crops or running a hay baler can be turned into a testimony of work ethic, drive and creativity.

Intangibles

Students who have an eye on career-specific scholarships are often competing against many worthy opponents. The idea is to find as many sources of college money as possible and apply for all of them. Sometimes it only takes one to cover financial obligations for school. Many committees believe that success in school often correlates to success in life. As a result, good grades, a fair number of extracurricular activities and a genuine interest in the subject are all important groundwork for earning college scholarships. Any testimony toward the student's good character is a bonus.