What suggestion does Ms Lion give to the students using Internet as an information source?

M: Good morning, everyone. Welcome to the students-centered radio program. Nowadays, I have been receiving a lot of letters asking how to apply scholarships so that they can study abroad. So, today, we have Ms Lion here to give us some clues. Welcome, Ms Lion.
W: Thank you.
M: Now, Ms Lion, let’s get straight to the topic. If students are considering going abroad and applying for scholarships, how can they get the information about that?
W: Well, actually, there’s no single, comprehensive source that can list for you all of the scholarships you’re eligible for. So we recommend that you treat this like a research project, and consult several sources.
M: I guess books and Internet must be among the sources.
W: Yes. Scholarship books may be general references, or more targeted. Whenever you pick up a scholarship book, the first thing to do is look at how it’s organized, so that you’ll be able to focus your search. Most books of scholarship listings will have several indexes.
M: Okay. What about online search? I myself often find the Internet very useful. There seems to be so much information on the Internet.
W: You are right. (1) But the problem is that there is too much information that the students may get lost. The key is focusing your search, so that you won’t be frustrated by the terrifying amount of information, and so that you can avoid disreputable sites and scams.
M: I didn’t realize that.
W: Take note of your interests, hobbies, religious background, etc. There are scholarships based on many characteristics that have nothing to do with grades or financial need.
M: (2) Since there are so many different types of scholarships, I here want to say that students should decide which scholarships are most worth their time to apply for—you will probably be eligible for many programs, and you might not have time to apply for all of them.
W: Exactly. Read carefully through all of the eligibility requirements for each award, and make sure you meet every requirement. Otherwise, it would be just a waste of time. Also, don’t limit yourself just to large scholarships—keep in mind that smaller scholarships add up, and each scholarship that you win gives you another honor to list on future applications making you attractive to scholarship committees. Often, smaller scholarships will have fewer applicants increasing your chances of winning.
M: That’s a good suggestion. Many students may ignore the small scholarships. As they don’t meet the requirement of larger ones, they may get frustrated and finally have to give up. Now, if they are sure they meet the requirement, what should they do?
W: Many scholarship programs will post their application materials on their websites—some may use an entirely online application form. If the application is not available online, write to the scholarship agency to request a copy of the application; include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
M: (3) Self-addressed stamped envelope? Why?
W: (3) For one thing, it’s for the convenience of the admission office. For another, you don’t want this important notice to get lost on the way because of obscure address.
M: I get it. You just mentioned the application form. I don’t think that’s the only thing needed.
W: Of course. Far more than that. Take note of what materials the application requires, and allow yourself plenty of time to gather everything. Besides the form, personal statement, often referred to as PS, is very important. Pay close attention to what the application is asking you to write about. You may be able to reuse it for multiple applications, but remember to tailor it for the specific scholarship you’re applying for. (4) Make sure to highlight the most pertinent aspects of yourself or your project.
M: Hmm. What about the letters of recommendation? I remember myself feeling so nervous asking my professors to write them. I was afraid they didn’t know me well enough to agree or they weren’t able to cover all my strengths.
W: My suggestion is to try to get to know your professors or instructors by attending office hours. Sometimes it is possible to get a letter from a Teaching Assistant, or to ask your Teaching Assistant to work with your professor in writing your letter. It is important to have strong letters from people who know you and know your work.
M: I hope I had listened to your advice when I was at college. It would have helped me a lot.
W: Then comes transcripts. Read the application requirements carefully and determine whether you need an official transcript, or whether an unofficial transcript will be sufficient. It takes time for you to get a copy of transcripts, so spare some time for it.
M: Now that I have finished collecting all the material, I am sure the next thing is to submit the application.
W: Yes. (5) But always remember to proofread your entire application to make sure you haven’t made any careless errors.
M: Hope students don’t delay. They know clearly there are deadlines.
W: So check to be sure whether the deadline printed on the application is for postmark or receipt of the application. Mail your application at least three days in advance of the postmark date. If the application must be received by a particular date, allow at least a week.
M: Yes. Your advice is very useful. Now time is up. Thanks for your coming, Ms Lion.
W: You’re welcome.