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The application process hasn't even started yet but I didn't even find out about last year's scholarship until a couple days before the deadline. I did get my application in on time but was not fortunate enough to be a recipient. I intend to apply again for the upcoming scholarship. Any tips from those that were accepted? My EFC is 0, I'm in an undergraduate program, and my GPA is 3.4.
I know for all who have not received the scholarship yet there is a lot of wondering about the people who did get it. There has been speculation about preference being made for many different reasons, this is my outlook. A scholarship like this is very competitive, and the best are going up against each other for it. You need to stand out!! Either have a top GPA meaning 3.8 or higher, volunteer work, the best essays, not just your opinions, but really to the point and eloquent. Also the best letters of recommendation, I had one from my advisor who wrote 3 pages, and a beautiful 2 page letter from my A&P professor. The people who were awarded the scholarship were the people who all around stood out due to their academic and community achievements and who had the best applications. I am a sophomore, so being a junior or senior isn't why I got it. I do have a high GPA and run my own urban gardening organization, and also logged over 300 hours of community service this year with different non-profits I support. My point being to all that will try again next year, plan now!! Work on your grades, get the best people to write your recommendations, and volunteer your time. Not just for the scholarship, but to give back to your community. From what I have read the people who won did so either because of their grades or their volunteer work, or both.
I also got the email yesterday. I'm starting a graduate entry FNP program at UMASS a week from Monday. My GPA was 3.4. EFC was 2000 something. Lots of experience volunteering both locally and abroad, which was mentioned in my essays and verified by my references.I'm praying that the email wording is more accurate than the wording at the login page and that the W-4 and school form are the only formality left. Congrats to the other new NSP "scholars" and good luck to everyone else.
ccummings
You sound like you really have really made an effort for this scholarship... good job. :) It is very time consuming to prepare for an opportunity like this. I too have volunteered for the past 2 years at a local intercity hospital. I had amazing recommendation letters from a nurse at work and my advisor, whom also taught 3 of my nursing classes including my clinical med/surg rotation. I also work full time, and I'm a single mom, who has not received a dime of child support...and my son is now 7. At times, studying for an exam was done while working a night shift and taking care of pts. Although it was tough...I still managed to maintain an 3.56 nursing GPA. In all honesty, these 3 years have been some of the hardest years of my life. Putting yourself through nursing school, raising a child and working full time...is not an easy combination.
For some of us, (myself and I'm sure others) this was the last year to really benefit from the stipend, so applying next year is really not an option. But as I have said before, it is okay...because I am almost done. :) This time next year, I will be getting a paycheck. Wahoo! If I am lucky enough to get this scholarship...I will welcome it with open arms. But if not...it's okay too. They have loan forgiveness programs at the hospital I work at now...so I can still benefit from that. The stipend is really what I needed. BUT, I've done it for 3 years, so I know I can do it for 1 more.
With all that being said...yes, do plan ahead. But know sometimes, even if you do plan ahead and it doesn't work out...God has a different plan for you. YOU MUST KEEP YOUR HEAD UP! That is key. My mom had to hammer that home yesterday when I called her in tears about this scholarship. It all works out at the end...regardless of what happens. :) If anything...this whole experience has made me stronger. Good luck again everyone...I will continue to pray!
edrury0927,
You also seem like you put a lot of thought into this process. It is great that you have dedicated so much time to others, and as a single mom as well I truly understand the hardships that entails. I truly wish you all the luck in the world and keep your hope alive. Friday was just day one in a month long process of decisions. You still have an excellent chance, and I will have my fingers crossed for you. Also congratulations on almost being done. That is a huge accomplishment in itself. This time next year you will be saving lives and bettering the life of your family. All My Best & Good Luck!!
Hi jnelson188,
Have you have your credit checked pulled yet or received an email? Do you mind me asking where do you live in Indiana? I live in Indy and my credit hasn't been pulled yet. Seems like a handful of people from other states received the acceptance email on August 3rd so I've been biting my nails all weekend
Soon2benurse25
46 Posts
@gladysc http://www.hrsa.gov/loanscholarships/scholarships/Nursing/tuition.html
The information about taxes and such is at the bottom of the page.