题目内容：

Whether you’ve been in college or you’re looking forward to going to university in the future, you and your family likely spend some time worrying about the cost of your college education. ____1.____ However, that will pay off for years to come. Earning scholarships is a great way to help you. The Financial Aid Office at Illinois State helps students identify scholarship opportunities every day. Here is some advice to help you.

●____2.____

Have you asked your high school or community college financial aid office about scholarships at your school? Many schools have a list of several scholarships right there. ___3._____ Check with community organizations, banks and credit unions, and large employers who may offer scholarship opportunities in your area.

●Find your “hook”

____4._____ Your unique characteristics can help your scholarship applications stand out. Pay special attention to awards that mention your best qualities, whether that’s academic achievements, leadership, community service, or something less common. Think about why a donor wants to assist you in paying for your education. Most scholarship providers want to encourage a particular behavior. Companies may want to attract future employees.

●Develop a routine

Every scholarship is different in terms of when you can apply, what you need to turn in, when the winner is announced, and how the money is given to you. _____5.____ There isn’t a single application or search engine that allows you to find and apply for everything. Visit the website for the Office of Student Financial Aid for lists of scholarship opportunities. Go through the lists to find the ones that match you best and keep track of when you can apply for them.

A. While you’re searching, consider what makes you special as a student.

B. Typically, scholarship applications open in the late fall or early spring for the next school year’s awards, but that also varies depending on the donors.

C. There is no doubt that college education is a necessary step to get yourselves prepared for the future.

D. Local awards can often be easier to get as the application pools are smaller and less competitive.

E. Begin in your own backyard.

F. It’s no secret that college is one of the biggest.

G. Scholarships is a great way to help you.