I'm in the process of looking for scholarships to help out with college tuition, and I came across the OppU Achievers Scholarship. It seems like a great opportunity, but I’m a bit unsure about how the application process works.
Has anyone applied for or received this scholarship and can share their experience? I’m particularly interested in what makes a strong application and if there are any specific eligibility requirements I should be aware of. Any advice on standing out or common mistakes to avoid would be super helpful too!
The OppU Achievers Scholarship awards $2,500 to high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students who demonstrate strong character, ambition and commitment to service. It's a great opportunity, and one I've seen applicants get a lot of value from.
The application process is quite straightforward and involves three simple steps:
1. Write an Essay: Applicants are required to write a short essay, with a maximum of 500 words, explaining why they're an "achiever". Achievers could be students who have overcome obstacles, students who are dedicated to service, or students who show considerable ambition in a particular field or area. The essay is the most critical part of the application; make it personal, and showcase your unique experiences or perspective to stand out from other applicants.
2. Fill out an Application: After finishing your essay, you would fill out a short online application form. This is typically a simple form that collects your basic information and allows you to attach your essay.
3. Submit: Once you've completed those, you simply hit submit.
The scholarship application is open year-round and has four deadlines—September 30, December 31, March 31, and June 30. Winners are announced two weeks after each deadline.
Some tips to strengthen your application include:
- Be Authentic: Make your essay authentic and personal. Remember, the scholarship panel wants to hear about your unique achievements. Don't be afraid to share your story, your struggles, and your successes.
- Proofread: Make sure you proofread your essay for any grammatical errors. Remember, first impressions matter and a well-written essay indicates attention to detail.
- Follow Instructions: Stick to the essay topic and abide by the word limit. The instructions are there for a reason and failing to follow them could hurt your chances.
Common mistakes I've seen include being too vague, not being personal enough, or not proofreading the essay before submission. Also, remember to apply early! It’s always beneficial to submit your application sooner rather than later, to avoid any last-minute technical glitches or issues.
Best of luck with your application!
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