Learn From The Experienced: Tips For Scholarship Success

Learn From The Experienced: Tips For Scholarship Success

Last month, four students who were proud recipients of the 2018 Professor Edwin B. Miller Memorial Endowed Scholarship shared their advice on the benefits of applying for scholarships. This month, three new students keep the trend going by sharing what they believe to be some top tips and tricks for success when taking the step to earning financial rewards during your college journey:

This month’s students are three of the 2018 W.W. Smith scholarship recipients. The W.W. Smith scholarship has been supporting Peirce College students since June 2004. The purpose of this scholarship is to provide financial support to eligible full-time undergraduate students who are in need of some financial assistance to achieve their academic dreams.

Check out what these three recipients have to say on the best advice for how to land that scholarship:

“The scholarship application process can seem intimidating but it doesn’t have to be. The most important thing I learned when completing my own applications is to give yourself enough time. Do not wait until the deadline to try to get everything done. The essay question portion of the application is important; there are no right or wrong answers but how you answer is critical so you want to make sure that your answers are concise, articulate, thoughtful, honest, and, most importantly, answer the question being asked.

If recommendation letters are required, my advice is to focus on this task first as you want to give the person enough notice. Keep in mind those you ask for a recommendation will need to carve out time in their schedule to write the letter, so allow them time to do so. Additionally, even if you only need two letters I suggest you have at least one other person in mind in case there is a scheduling conflict you’re not left scrambling to complete your application.

Lastly, always proofread your work and make sure all of your information is correct. There are free online tools that will check your work for spelling and grammatical errors but the Walker Center here at Peirce College and SMARTHINKING are also excellent resources and easily accessible. You can type up your essay(s) in a word document and submit it for a tutor to review. They’ll help you correct any errors before you submit your final scholarship application.” – Jackie (Jackmely) Hernandez, Current Peirce College Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration Student

————-

“Taking part in the scholarship opportunities at Peirce is a great way to help pay for your college education. If you are like me, scholarships are a lifesaver. In order to attain these awards, such as the W.W. Smith Scholarship, there some things that must be done on the applicant’s part. First, one must ensure that they, in fact, qualify for such awards (GPA, residency requirements, extra-curricular activities/community service, etc.). You can check with your Academic Advisor if you are unsure of the criteria and to check in on your qualifications. Second, there will most likely be an essay requirement. This is probably one of the biggest causes of unclaimed scholarship money. Students fail to complete the essay due to the time and energy one must put into it. I understand that this is yet another requirement on top of your actual school work, but by writing a complete and well thought essay you may receive a scholarship award that results in peace of mind as you tackle your classes. Finally, my greatest advice is to read the requirements thoroughly and give much attention to detail when completing the required essay. It will all pay off.” – Corey Hinson, Current Peirce College Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership Student

————-

“Peirce College made the process of applying for scholarships simple. All there is to do is find the scholarships you are interested in, write the necessary essays, and submit letters of recommendations. My first suggestion to make this process more successful is to apply for more than one scholarship to increase your chances of receiving a reward. Additionally, several months prior to applying for scholarships, reach out to multiple people you have working relationships with for recommendation letters. I would suggest including professors that you have developed a great rapport with and have done well in their classes. Lastly, make sure all of the requirements for the essays are met and don’t be reluctant to add personal touches to your submissions. Good luck!” – Joseph Hicks, Current Peirce College Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Student

Thank you and congratulations to all our 2018 W.W. Smith Scholarship recipients! Check back in next month for a new scholarship highlight and some more advice on funding your education as a working adult.

  • Prev Post
  • Next Post

LeaveComment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *