When it comes to something as pivotal as a successful Balanced Man Scholarship, it’s never too soon to begin preparing. Winter break presents a unique opportunity for chapters planning a summer or fall scholarship to begin their preparations for the 2015 BMS – before the next semester/quarter tempts you to procrastinate.

First and foremost, it’s important to select a BMS chairman. In the end, one member will be ultimately responsible for the planning and execution of the scholarship, so the BMS chairman should be organized, dependable and capable of delegating responsibility well. The vice president of recruitment should not serve as the BMS chairman. He has plenty to keep him busy with his own job.

Once a chairman is selected, he should start by learning as much about the BMS as he can – both what has and hasn’t worked for the chapter in the past, as well as best practices from around the country. For helpful new resources, including a comprehensive guide to the BMS, a sample timeline, and budget and letter templates, contact your regional director.

Next, craft a detailed plan. When will the awards ceremony be? When will you mail and email potential applicants? When will interviews take place? Who will conduct them? How much money will we have for the scholarships and awards ceremony? Use the BMS guide and BMS project plan to chart a course for your work during the coming months. As with any large project, taking things step-by-step will make the work manageable.

Finally, the break provides a great opportunity to write letters to incoming students, parents and high school guidance counselors. You may also want to begin building your mailing list for high schools that send a lot of students to your college/university, or begin looking for a venue for your awards ceremony.

Again, the key to a successful Balanced Man Scholarship is advanced planning by a qualified BMS chairman, and there’s no time like now to get started.

To learn more about the Balanced Man Scholarship and how to use it at your chapter, view the BMS resource guide.