Class of 2025 Scholarship Information
Before you Submit
1.Your personal statement should be reviewed by a GHS teacher, ETS or PAPER Tutoring
2. Download the application, type out your responses, print applications in the library or in room 508
3. Ensure your application packet is complete before submitting it.
Scholarship Application-Download it and type your responses, then print.
Your Guide to Scholarships: Funding your Future
Academic Achievement: Many universities and colleges offer scholarships to students who have achieved exceptional academic performance. For instance, a university may provide a merit-based scholarship to a student who has maintained a high GPA throughout high school.
Athletic Scholarships: Colleges and universities often offer scholarships to students who excel in sports. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, accommodation, and even provide additional financial support. For example, a talented basketball player may receive a full-ride scholarship to play for a university team.
Talent-Based Scholarships: Scholarships can also be awarded to students who possess exceptional skills or talents in areas such as music, art, or theater. For instance, a talented violinist might receive a scholarship to attend a prestigious music school.
Need-Based Scholarships: Some scholarships are specifically designed to assist students from low-income backgrounds. These scholarships aim to provide financial support to students who may not have the means to afford higher education. For example, a foundation might offer scholarships to students whose family income falls below a certain threshold.
Community Service Scholarships: Certain scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated a commitment to community service. This could include volunteering at local organizations, participating in service projects, or initiating community improvement initiatives. For instance, a student who has dedicated significant time to working with underprivileged children might receive a scholarship from a community service organization.
Personal Statement Tips
A personal statement for a scholarship application is your opportunity to showcase your unique qualities, experiences, and aspirations. It should demonstrate why you are a strong candidate for the scholarship. Here are the key elements to include in a compelling personal statement:
Introduction: Begin with a captivating hook to grab the reader's attention. This can be a personal anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a relevant quote. Clearly state your purpose in applying for the scholarship and the specific scholarship name if applicable.
Your Background: Share some background information about yourself, such as your name, current school, major or intended major, and any relevant personal details like where you're from.
Academic Achievements: Highlight your academic accomplishments, including your GPA, standardized test scores, and any notable achievements, awards, or honors. Explain the significance of these achievements.
Extracurricular Activities: Discuss your involvement in extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, or volunteer work. Emphasize leadership roles, responsibilities, and how these activities have shaped you.
Relevant Experiences: Describe any work experience, internships, or research projects that are relevant to your field of study or career goals. Discuss what you learned from these experiences.
Passion and Goals: Clearly convey your passion for your chosen field of study and your long-term career goals. Explain why you are passionate about it and how you plan to make a difference in the future.
Connection to the Scholarship: Explain how the scholarship aligns with your goals and aspirations. Discuss how receiving the scholarship will help you achieve your objectives and why you are a deserving candidate.
Challenges and Overcoming Adversity: If you have faced obstacles or challenges, discuss them briefly and focus on how you overcame them. Highlight your resilience and determination.
Unique Qualities and Attributes: Share personal qualities, values, or skills that set you apart from other applicants. Be specific and provide examples.
Short-Term Goals: Describe what you hope to achieve in the near future, such as during your time in college or your immediate post-graduation plans.
Long-Term Goals: Discuss your long-term career aspirations and how you plan to make a meaningful impact in your chosen field. it.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your enthusiasm for the scholarship. Leave a lasting impression on the reader.
Reflect and Edit: Take the time to revise and proofread your personal statement carefully. Check for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or peers.
Word Limit: Ensure that your personal statement adheres to any word or character limits specified in the scholarship application instructions.
Honesty and Authenticity: Be sincere and honest in your personal statement. Authenticity is key to making a memorable impression.
Remember that a well-crafted personal statement should not only demonstrate your qualifications but also provide insight into your character, values, and passion. Tailor your statement to the specific scholarship and focus on why you are the ideal candidate to receive it.
Sample Personal Statement Exemplary Response:
The GHS Scholarship Application provides a wonderful opportunity for me to showcase my achievements, aspirations, and the obstacles I have overcome. This personal statement aims to give you a glimpse into who I am and what drives me.
First and foremost, my professional aspirations are deeply rooted in the field of medicine. Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the human body and the intricacies of healthcare. My ultimate goal is to become a pediatrician, as I have always had a passion for working with children. Through this scholarship, I hope to secure the financial support necessary to pursue my dreams and make a positive impact on the lives of young patients.
Academically, I have consistently strived for excellence throughout my high school journey. Maintaining a high GPA and challenging myself with rigorous coursework has been a priority for me. However, my achievements extend beyond the classroom. I have actively participated in various clubs and extracurricular activities, such as the Science Club and the Interact Club. These experiences have not only enriched my knowledge but also taught me valuable lessons in leadership and teamwork.
Overcoming obstacles has been an integral part of my journey. As a first-generation student, I have faced financial hardships that made accessing educational resources a challenge. However, I have never let these obstacles hinder my determination. Instead, they have fueled my drive to succeed and have instilled in me a deep appreciation for the value of education.
In addition to my academic and personal achievements, I have always been committed to serving others. Volunteering at the local hospital has allowed me to witness firsthand the impact healthcare professionals can make on individuals and communities. Through my interactions with patients, I have learned the importance of empathy, compassion, and the ability to connect with people on a deeper level. These qualities, I believe, are essential for anyone pursuing a career in the medical field.
In conclusion, this personal statement serves as a window into my life, aspirations, and accomplishments. I hope that it conveys my passion for medicine, my dedication to academic excellence, my resilience in the face of challenges, and my commitment to serving others. With this scholarship, I aim to continue my journey towards becoming a pediatrician and making a difference in the lives of countless children.
Sample Donor Thank You Letter
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Letter of Recommendation Request
[Your Contact Information]
Sample of Extracurricular Activities List
- Current High School: XYZ High School, City, State (Expected Graduation: May 2023)
- GPA: 3.8
- Member, National Honor Society (NHS)
- Captain, Varsity Basketball Team
- President, Science Club
- Volunteer Tutor, After-School Program
- Mentor, Freshman Orientation Program
- Volunteer, Local Homeless Shelter (40 hours)
- Fundraiser Organizer, Environmental Awareness Campaign
- Volunteer, Community Clean-Up Drive
- Intern, Local Law Firm (Summer 2022)
- Cashier, ABC Retail Store (Part-time, 2021-2022)
- Lifeguard, City Pool (Summer job, 2020-2021)
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
- Strong Communication Skills (Verbal and Written)
- Leadership and Team Management
- Fluent in Spanish
- Academic Excellence Award, XYZ High School
- MVP, Varsity Basketball Team
- Certificate of Appreciation, Community Service Initiative
Scholarship Websites:
Always exercise caution when using scholarship search websites. Avoid any platform that asks for payment or personal financial information in exchange for access to scholarships, as this may be a scam. Stick to well-established, reputable sources to ensure your scholarship search is safe and productive.
Finding credible scholarship websites is crucial when you're looking for financial aid to support your education. Here are some reputable scholarship websites and resources where you can search for scholarships:
- fastweb.com is one of the largest and most well-known scholarship search platforms. It matches you with scholarships that are tailored to your profile and interests.
- Scholarships.com provides a comprehensive database of scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities. It offers a user-friendly search tool.
- Cappex offers a scholarship search tool and also provides information on colleges and universities, making it a valuable resource for college-bound students.
- Niche features a wide range of scholarships, including those offered by colleges, private organizations, and state-specific opportunities. It also offers college and school reviews.
- The College Board Scholarship Search The College Board, which administers the SAT, offers a scholarship search engine to help you find scholarships and other financial aid opportunities.
- Peterson's Scholarship Search provides a scholarship search tool along with a wealth of information on colleges and universities.
- Sallie Mae Scholarship Search provides a scholarship search tool to help you find scholarships and grants for education.
- Minority Scholarship Resources: If you're part of an underrepresented group, consider using specialized scholarship resources like the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF), Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund (APIASF), and others.
- Government Scholarship and Financial Aid Websites: Check with government agencies for scholarships and financial aid programs. In the U.S., websites like Federal Student Aid (studentaid.gov) and the Department of Education (ed.gov) offer valuable information.