WGP Tuition/Scholarship ideas

(Or, where do I dig up 6 grand for a year in the woods?)
We strongly encourage every potential seeker to take an active role in generating their own tuition scholarship through creativity and personal effort. There may also be ways to reduce your costs. Here's some suggestions to get started:

* Are your friends and family out shopping for your holiday or birthday presents? Could you ask them to gift you with money towards this program instead?

* Would your community or organization support you to come? In return, you might offer to do a presentation when you return and teach something of what you learn. This really stacks functions and extends the impact of the learning you receive.

* Would your friends help you do a fundraising event: a garage sale, a raffle, a concert, a public ritual, a silent auction, a potluck, a formal tea party, a video screening, a bowling tournament, a guided herb walk, a poetry reading, a theater event, a ___?

* Do you make crafts or art items that you could sell? Grow veggies or flowers? Have access to sage or juniper that could be gathered, dried, and sold as smudge sticks? Can you offer tarot readings, foot massages, fresh cookies, live music? Get a booth at your local market or fair. Add a donation jar and attractive sign to your booth, telling why you're fundraising.

* Sell junk you won't be needing on eBay, craigslist, your local classifieds, a blanket.

* Your tuition may be tax deductible as an education expense (if you itemize taxes and/or file taxes as a small business). If you are someone's tax dependent and they pay for your tuition, it may be a deduction for them.

* Is it possible that your college will pay for part or all of this program? If you are currently enrolled in college, contact your financial aid counselor to see if there are any funds for specialized training needed for your degree. Ask your professors and/or department secretary about school programs that might contribute. Talk to your student organizations, too. Great for Psychology majors!?

* Some people may be able to sublet or rent their normal living space, while away for the WGP (11 months).

* To help with transportation costs (not included in tuition), ask your family and friends for their extra frequent flyer miles. Buy Greyhound bus tickets at least 7 days early if possible, noting that certain days and weekends are more expensive. Same goes for Amtrak. Book flights early online choosing "flexible schedule" for lowest prices. Remember to use any AAA, Student, Military or other discounts and promotions offered.