There are many reasons why students don’t apply for scholarships. That’s according to Bermuda Careers Centre’s Executive Director, Derek Smith, who points out that the number one excuse he hears is not having a high enough Grade Point Average (GPA).

But that’s simply not true as Mr. Smith points out: “You don’t need to have a 4.0 GPA, as some scholarships don’t require a minimum GPA at all. Scholarships can be based on your interest in a particular career or academic major, the community you live in, your activities, or other criteria.”

He adds that some scholarships require only a 3.0 or 3.5. GPA.

Another reason students do not apply for scholarships is the belief that their parents earn too much money for them to qualify: “Some scholarships are based on need or financial aid eligibility, but there are many merit-based scholarships which are not based on yours or your parents’ incomes or assets-they are based on your own academic achievements and promise for future success.”

However, Mr. Smith says the excuse he hears most often is that students do not know where to look for scholarships.

He points out that detailed information is available not only on the Bermuda Careers Centre’s web site, but is also published in various books, from counsellor’s offices at Bermuda College, or at schools abroad. There is also a scholarship directory on Butterfield Bank’s website. Go to: http://www.butterfieldbank.com/web2000/careers/scholarship_directory.asp

Students, he adds, can also call or visit local businesses, professional organisations, the Chamber of Commerce, or by checking with their parents’ employers and organisations they belong to.

And if you believe you don’t have enough time to look for scholarships or fill out application forms, Mr. Smith says unless you have a “money tree”, time is money, and in this case money well-spent.

“If it takes you a total of 10 hours to look for scholarship opportunities, complete and mail applications, and you receive only one $2,500 scholarship you have made $250 per hour — more than most of us make at our jobs!” he declares.

As for writing an essay to accompany your scholarship, Mr. Smith says while this can be very difficult, especially when it comes to writing about yourself, in most cases it is how a scholarship committee gets to know you, so you need to represent yourself in a positive manner without boasting.

He suggests giving a draft of your essay to several people to read over for grammar, style and content.

Students are also embarrassed when it comes to asking people to recommend them.

“The people you ask to write a letter for you should know you well and believe you will be successful in college and your future career,” he points out.

“Develop relationships with teachers and community members as they may volunteer to be a mentor and recommend you for college admission, scholarships, internships, education abroad, and jobs. Start talking to people now, seek advice on what colleges to consider.”

Mr. Smith advises that it is important to research what careers are in demand, identify those that suit your interests, talents, and abilities.

A good place to start is at the Bermuda Careers Centre, where staff can help students complete an evaluation.

These evaluations will highlight your strengths and weaknesses and Mr. Smith and his team will then steer you in the right direction by pointing out the various careers available for each strength.

“We are all worthy of the opportunity to learn and grow, and to contribute the best we can to our community and society-at-large,” he says in closing.For more information, visit Bermuda Careers Centre’s website at www.bdacareers.bm

Show me the money