I'm interested in applying for the Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship for 2023 and would love any insights or tips on how to make my application stand out. Has anyone had success with this competition?
The Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Scholarship is fairly competitive, with 500 four-year scholarships for the highest-rated applicants each year. Its evaluation criteria are based on leadership, scholarship, and financial need. Here are a few tips on how to strengthen your application:
1. Leadership: Emphasize your impact in leadership roles you've held. Whether it's in a club, community service, or a part-time job, outline specific contributions or changes you made. Provide quantitative evidence where possible. For example, if you're the president of a club, discuss membership growth or new initiatives under your leadership.
2. Scholarship: While your transcript will be an integral part of the evaluation process, you want to provide more context to your academic achievements. Discuss research projects, challenging coursework, or intellectual pursuits outside of school. If there were any extenuating circumstances that affected your GPA, be sure to include these details in your application.
3. Financial Need: The scholarship also considers a student's financial need, but remember that need is relative. Do not be discouraged from applying even if you don't think your need is 'high enough'. Thoughtfully complete the financial information section with accurate details to allow the committee to understand your situation.
4. Community Involvement: The Elks are deeply community-oriented, so highlight your commitment to your community. Discuss your most meaningful volunteer experiences or community projects. Be sure to explain why these efforts are important to you personally and what impact they have on your local community.
5. Letters of Recommendation: These can make a significant difference in your application. Choose people who know you well and can speak to your leadership, scholarship, community involvement, and character. Provide them with enough information and time to write a detailed and compelling recommendation.
Finally, be sure to proofread your application and adhere to the deadlines. Good luck!
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