Traveling solo: Scholarships create career opportunities for single dads

Single parenting is tough, and while the saga of single moms is the stuff of legends, often the struggles of single dads get overlooked. All parents - single or otherwise - share the common hope that they can help provide the very best for their children, but sometimes the road to that goal can seem insurmountable. For single dads who are trying to balance their work life with parenting, the idea of pursuing their own education may seem like the impossible dream, even though it is widely acknowledged that education holds the key to sound, prosperous future.

Here are the facts: over 60% of U.S. employment opportunities require more than a high school education. But even though a college degree or professional training is the route to a higher salary and job security, the idea of putting together the time and the money to pursue a college degree or career certification can seem daunting. However, for those single dads who are serious about going back to school, there are scholarships that can help underwrite the cost of tuition. In a recent article, an expert outlines some valuable ‘search tips’ for single dads.

• #1. First things first. Filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is essential in order to qualify for federally financed student loans and grants. In addition, many private scholarships use the FAFSA to determine awards.
• #2. Eyes on the prize. Evaluating career direction is also a first, all-important step. Are you looking to advance in your current field, or are you looking for a new career direction? Decide on a career goal, then start tracking down scholarships in your field of interest. There are several excellent free on-line scholarship search tools that can help. And remember, never, ever pay for a scholarship locating service.
• #3. Talk to the boss. Some companies offer either scholarships or tuition assistance to their employees, so make sure you inquire to see if your employer participates in one of these programs.
• #4. Uncle Sam can help. If you are a military veteran, there are programs that can help underwrite your education and even assist with living expense while you are a student. And check out ‘vet friendly’ colleges and training schools who offer special services like mentoring to soldier scholars. The Veterans Administration is an excellent place to start.
• #5. Private versus public. Common wisdom may indicate that the tuition and fees at a public college or university are cheaper, but private colleges often have greater resources devoted to scholarships and grants. If you think a private school offers the best program, don’t hesitate to explore their scholarship and financial aid options.

And there are other factors to consider when looking for educational scholarships -- for instance, organizations and religious groups can be an excellent source of funds. In addition, there actually are gender-specific, ‘men only’ scholarships. And financial aid counselors advise all prospective students to come up with a list of their own unique interests -- these ‘extra curricular’ passions may lead to a scholarship opportunity. The bottom line: for those single dads who are looking to build a future for themselves and their children, there are options, and that is good news for families everywhere.