Reusable Materials 40: More Answers to Questions About Reusable Materials

Thursdays we discuss how reusable materials can WOW committees and save time

Wendy struggled with using computers. She wanted to go to college in her 50’s. Her lack of education and high paying skills kept her in poverty. She did not own a computer. She used computers at community organizations and programs. As a result, the concept of a reusable master application confused her. She could not comprehend using Google Drive or other cloud-based documents. Our staff taught her how to email her master application to herself to keep it on the cloud.

Q: How safe is it to keep my master application on the cloud?

A: Good question. Any system remains vulnerable to hacking or cyber attacks. Identify theft thrives because most people list personal information on Internet sites and online applications. Determined hackers can access your personal information everywhere. You should worry more about your Facebook and other social media accounts for safety. We encourage you to carefully study the terms of agreement outlined on your email, social media, online banking, and other Internet accounts.

Having said that, Google drive and most email accounts will give adequate protection to your reusable master application, essays, FAFSA, and letters of recommendation.

Q: Can I defer my scholarships if I stop attending school?

Most scholarship committees, but not all of them, will defer your payments depending on the reason for the deferment. For example, many committees will defer your payments if you take time off from school to:

• Donate time for local, domestic, or international humanitarian service
• Handle a family illness, crisis, or death
• Serve an apprenticeship, internship, or service learning opportunity

Scholarship sponsors typically will only defer scholarships for short-term for the following reasons:

• Go on a vacation, travel, rock climbing, or other high-adventure activities
• Just drop out with no plans for returning
• Leaving school because your grades do not meet the standard requirements
• Serving time in a correctional facility

Your description of the reason for the deferment affects how they respond to your request for deferment.

Saturday we share a tip about enhancing the number of scholarships you find

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