Sometimes getting a scholarship is a matter of luck.

Listen to this! (Especially if you attend a public college in Wisconsin.)

600 low-income college students will be randomly selected to receive scholarships worth $3,500 per year.

In addition, 600 low-income two-year or technical college students will be randomly selected to receive scholarships worth $1,800 per year.

For more details, click here.

That's pretty cool.

If you attend school in Wisconsin, be sure to check your mailboxes!

Here's the thing. And this random scholarship lottery is an example: sometimes getting a scholarship is a matter of luck. Many awards function by private nominations, random drawings, and unexpected gifts. This "random" nature of scholarships should not deter you from actively seeking awards, however. (Yes, I know some of you would use this as an excuse to avoid applying entirely!)

The fact is, when you put yourself out there in front of numerous scholarship committees, people start recognizing you (especially once you're in college and apply for university scholarships). What happens is that committee members remember who you are and because your name is fresh in their brain they are more apt to nominate you or mention you when nomination-based scholarships come up.

So, rather than say "Geez, those kids in Wisconsin sure are lucky," go out and make your own luck.

Some people say that luck is the result of hard work meeting an opportunity.

Based on my own experience, I couldn't agree more. 

My advice?

Work hard, apply to lots of scholarships, and appreciate yourself when you receive an "unexpected" award.

Have a great weekend!