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Sophie
Student
Naples, Florida
1
Question
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Is applying to scholarships this disheartening to everyone?
I feel like I have applied to dozens and still have nothing to show for it. Am I missing something, or should I continue applying to the random $1,000 essay scholarships on websites like "fastweb" and "scholarships.com"? Does anyone have advice for actually getting scholarships?
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Dr H
Dr. H's Research
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Australia
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Dr’s Answer
Ohayo Sophie,
Wow, I totally get the frustration! Applying for scholarships can feel like an endless game of hitting “submit” and getting nothing back sometimes or even all the time actually. YBut know that you’re not alone in feeling disheartened about it. The scholarship process can be a bit like a lottery, lots of competition, and sometimes it feels like you’re just throwing your efforts into a black hole. Now I cant qurantee a total acceptance but I hope what I share helps you as it did a few others.
For starters, quality over quantity is key. While it’s tempting to apply for every random $1,000 essay contest you find on sites like Fastweb or Scholarships.com, it’s often better to focus on scholarships that align with your passions or background. The more personal and targeted your application is, the better your chances of standing out. Sometimes, a well-crafted application for a smaller, niche scholarship can be more effective than applying for tons of general ones, although ofcourse you can write plenty of great crafted applications for all of them, that just depends how much time you are willing to give.
Also, don’t overlook the local scholarships. Community organizations, local businesses, and even your high school might offer awards that get a lot less attention than the big ones, which means less competition. And make sure to check with your school’s financial aid office or guidance counselor for those opportunities as well.
Oh and hey, if you’re feeling burned out, don’t be afraid to take breaks. Scholarship hunting can feel like a full-time job, but it’s okay to step back for a bit. If you keep pushing without a break, you might not put the best version of yourself into your applications and you get exhausted as well. Reapply for scholarships year after year—what you apply for today could work out next year with a bit more experience under your belt but then that is time consuming unless you are applying early on. What I know Sophie scholarships can be granted its just based on the students reasons and life status, now they usually prioritise those who are top or in case of help then those who really need it but this doesn't mean they throw you out, you just have to show your dedication to them and try to even talk to the administrators about which you can be eligible for, this emailing personally and talking to them can actually help you best too.
Lastly, consider writing a killer personal statement or an application essay. Be honest, be vulnerable, and let your passion for the field and the school shine through. Sometimes, the scholarship committee just wants to know who you are and what drives you. Dont over show or make up what you cant do because once you get it there will be disappointments. I am sure you got this Sophie, maybe give it a few other shots I am sure you will get something, just don't give up and stay dedicated. Keep applying, but also work smarter, not just harder. Keep your chin up—scholarships are just one part of the journey, and persistence will definitely pay off. All the best girl.
Wow, I totally get the frustration! Applying for scholarships can feel like an endless game of hitting “submit” and getting nothing back sometimes or even all the time actually. YBut know that you’re not alone in feeling disheartened about it. The scholarship process can be a bit like a lottery, lots of competition, and sometimes it feels like you’re just throwing your efforts into a black hole. Now I cant qurantee a total acceptance but I hope what I share helps you as it did a few others.
For starters, quality over quantity is key. While it’s tempting to apply for every random $1,000 essay contest you find on sites like Fastweb or Scholarships.com, it’s often better to focus on scholarships that align with your passions or background. The more personal and targeted your application is, the better your chances of standing out. Sometimes, a well-crafted application for a smaller, niche scholarship can be more effective than applying for tons of general ones, although ofcourse you can write plenty of great crafted applications for all of them, that just depends how much time you are willing to give.
Also, don’t overlook the local scholarships. Community organizations, local businesses, and even your high school might offer awards that get a lot less attention than the big ones, which means less competition. And make sure to check with your school’s financial aid office or guidance counselor for those opportunities as well.
Oh and hey, if you’re feeling burned out, don’t be afraid to take breaks. Scholarship hunting can feel like a full-time job, but it’s okay to step back for a bit. If you keep pushing without a break, you might not put the best version of yourself into your applications and you get exhausted as well. Reapply for scholarships year after year—what you apply for today could work out next year with a bit more experience under your belt but then that is time consuming unless you are applying early on. What I know Sophie scholarships can be granted its just based on the students reasons and life status, now they usually prioritise those who are top or in case of help then those who really need it but this doesn't mean they throw you out, you just have to show your dedication to them and try to even talk to the administrators about which you can be eligible for, this emailing personally and talking to them can actually help you best too.
Lastly, consider writing a killer personal statement or an application essay. Be honest, be vulnerable, and let your passion for the field and the school shine through. Sometimes, the scholarship committee just wants to know who you are and what drives you. Dont over show or make up what you cant do because once you get it there will be disappointments. I am sure you got this Sophie, maybe give it a few other shots I am sure you will get something, just don't give up and stay dedicated. Keep applying, but also work smarter, not just harder. Keep your chin up—scholarships are just one part of the journey, and persistence will definitely pay off. All the best girl.