Jennifer Harford Vargas’02
 “It is important to provide a compelling narrative about yourself and your intellectual interests in the application. You want to give the committee a sense of who you are as both a person and as a (future) scholar, in addition to providing information about your academic experience and trajectory. “
Lauren Spadafora, ’10
 “Make sure you have a passion for what the scholarship sponsors! Part of the Beckman application process was a presentation of my research proposal with 5 science department chairs, and I think what spoke for me more than my knowledge of the research subject was the excitement that I showed during my talk!”
Jennifer Germano, ’03
 “Do your homework! No one is going to give you an award or a grant for nothing. You have to prove that you are the best person for the job and to do this you have to figure out what you want and do the research.
Figure out the details, a solid plan shows that you're prepared and that you've really thought things out. Know why you want to do whatever it is you're applying for. Who is going to benefit and how? There needs to be some kind of outcome. And most importantly, dream big!!! You can do almost anything you put your mind to, so if there's something you want then go after it. It's always better than wondering "what if?" later on after you've passed up an opportunity.” |
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Janine Saliba ’10
 “ Do not give up. Do not ever think that you cannot afford to study abroad; there are always scholarships that you can apply to and people who will be willing to help you if you truly want to travel abroad.”
Iordan Ganev '10
 “It is important to remember that scholarships are not an end, but a means toward an end. Hence find topics that you are excited about. As you delve into these areas and talk to professors and fellow students about the field, you will discover new opportunities and unanswered questions. Once you gain some research experience, the remaining challenge will be to express your passion and planned endeavors clearly in a well-written application essay. When you secure the scholarship, remember that you would have gained more than prestige and a financial boost -- the scholarship allows you to pursue your passion further and resolve those unanswered questions that led you to apply in the first place.”
Carrie Almasi, ’10
 “I would advise anyone considering study abroad to apply for this particular scholarship especially if they plan to take coursework in a critical language. Students should have as many peers and advisers as possible review their essays and attempt to convey a sense of purpose and intent within their responses. Most importantly, students should simply be truthful and imaginative in their applications.”
Tim Lu, ’11
 “Go to your professors and discuss international issues and foreign policies. Ask them the importance of studying abroad in the country you wish to go to. Build a relationship with them, and you will find their advice and assistance with essays and reference letters a vital piece in your applications to competitive scholarships.” |
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Heather Hillenbrand ’09
 “The most important part of any project is your own passion. Everyone will encounter problems along the way to what they want to do, and some of them will likely be serious. However, if you believe in the value of what you are doing, you will find a way forward.”
Nidhi Subbaraman, ’09
 “If you are interested in research in the biological or physical sciences, grab a grad student and follow them around. If you think you're hooked, this scholarship is an excellent opportunity to carry out long-term, guided research with a faculty member, and get some very valuable "real-lab" experience!"
Megan Sabal, ’10
 “Don’t let negative thoughts keep you from applying to a scholarship. You are more qualified than you realize and the application process is worthwhile in itself.”
Greg Newstadt, ’07
 “Get involved with doing research with a faculty member as soon as you can. More importantly, though, is to make sure that you match the research to your interests so that the everyday frustrations don't overwhelm you.”
Josh McIntire, ’10
 “My advice is to talk with the professors you feel the most comfortable with and who know you the best. Talk with them about your application and be open to their criticism and suggestions. Your application will get stronger by talking and listening to your professors and the staff in the Honors Department.” |
