Who wouldn’t want the chance to go to Puerto Rico? I have been excited for this band trip opportunity since it was introduced last winter. A once in a lifetime opportunity to share my love of music and explore another culture is an eyeopening experience! I believe I am a good candidate for this band scholarship because along the lines of what Mr. Schmitz has said, in order for me to help you, you have to help yourself first. I have participated in the band fundraisers over the past two years and plan on continuing to fundraise for the trip. Over the summer I got a job at the St. Louis Park Rec Center (luckily they hire at age 15) to earn money specifically for the Puerto Rico trip. I also mowed a neighbor’s lawn weekly, babysat and I raked leaves. I even watched my neighbors house and cat while she was away. I have been saving as much as I can to put toward the cost of this awesome adventure. I still do not have enough to pay for the Puerto Rico trip by myself. This band scholarship would help me immensely to be able to accomplish my goal of going on the trip to Puerto Rico this Spring Break.
The way that I see the Puerto Rico band trip is a way for me to be immersed in another culture, to be able to practice my spanish while bonding with the band family and to enjoy sharing the language of music. This opportunity of traveling with the band is one that would not have been imaginable with my family. I am paying for the cost of this on my own because my family can not afford to help pay for me to go. I have an older brother who is a Freshman in college and a younger brother that is in second grade. They have also had unexpected medical bills to contend with. Even if my parents were able to help me pay for the trip, I would still do my best to pay for the trip on my own because I feel that it is important for people to work for the things they want in life.
Playing La Boriqueña in band class has been a learning experience and will be a great way to connect with the people and culture during our trip. The experience that I will gain by going to Puerto Rico will be lifechanging. It has the possibility of enhancing my musicianship skills as well as my personal experiences. This trip is a way to become closer as a band family and take the classroom experience out of school and I want to be a part of this. I am very confident that I will be able to raise enough money and attain my goal of going on the band trip to Puerto Rico with the help of this scholarship.
This is very good. I'd divide it into paragraphs, though.
Thanks for the suggetions and feedback!
It sounds like you're very enthusiastic about the band trip to Puerto Rico! It's great that you have been actively fundraising and saving money to contribute towards the trip. However, you mentioned that you're still short on funds and are hoping to receive a band scholarship to help cover the remaining cost. To increase your chances of getting the scholarship, here are a few steps you can take:
1. Research the scholarship: Find out if there are any specific criteria or requirements for the band scholarship. Some scholarships may have certain eligibility criteria such as academic achievements, musical abilities, or volunteer experiences. Understanding these criteria will help you tailor your application accordingly.
2. Write a compelling essay: Craft a well-written essay that highlights your passion for music and your desire to immerse yourself in another culture. Explain how this trip to Puerto Rico would be a unique and valuable experience for your personal and musical growth. Share specific examples of your fundraising efforts and the challenges you have overcome to save money for the trip. This will demonstrate your dedication and determination.
3. Seek letters of recommendation: Reach out to your band director, music teachers, or any other individuals who can vouch for your musical abilities, work ethic, and commitment to the band. Ask them to write you letters of recommendation that speak to your qualifications and potential as a candidate for the band scholarship.
4. Polish your application: Ensure that your application is complete and error-free. Double-check all the required documents, such as your essay, financial information, and any additional materials required. Present your application in a professional manner to make a good impression.
5. Submit your application on time: Pay close attention to the scholarship application deadline and ensure that you submit your application well in advance. Late submissions may not be considered, so make sure to plan accordingly.
Remember, in addition to applying for the band scholarship, continue your fundraising efforts and explore other potential sources of financial assistance. Speak to your band director or school counselor to inquire about other scholarships or grants that may be available to band students.
Good luck with your application!