Managing the Application Process

Adhere to a timetable — Applying for a scholarship or fellowship requires you to accept firm deadlines. Applicants must follow the timetable set by Bates College Graduate Fellowship Committee at the behest of the granting agency.

Research scholarships thoroughly — Quickly scanning a foundation website is not enough–study a number of fellowships carefully. Gather as much information as you can about the requirements and assess your compatibility with them. Pay particular attention to written instructions, question-and-answer sections, and information on previous recipients. This takes time, so start your research months or even years ahead.

Take stock from time to time — Beginning your application well ahead of time allows you to periodically step back and look at your application as another might. Try different approaches in your writing, and be objective; don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from people who may be knowledgeable in a specific area.

Budget your time — The last few semesters of college and the first few post-graduate years are especially hectic, as you may be applying to graduate schools, involved in extracurricular activities, evaluating job prospects and writing a thesis. Make sure to set aside the time applying for a major award requires. If possible, start your research well before your senior year.

Craft superior essays/proposals —Make the effort to write strong drafts, and be willing to revise according to the advice of the GFA and GFC. Be sure to consult your academic advisors and mentors several times along the way. Be ready to revise and rewrite your application essay(s) many times.  A well-constructed application is far more likely to be successful.

Assemble all appropriate supporting documents — It is often said that ‘the devil is in the details.’ Understand that lacking even one critical item like a passport photo, official transcript, portfolio, curriculum vitae or letter of recommendation may be enough to throw you out of the running. When assembling materials, check the whole package carefully several times.

Interview preparedness — You will be expected to present yourself appropriately in terms of dress and bearing during application interviews.  You should have thorough knowledge of your subject, be able to answer questions clearly and confidently, and perhaps even think ‘outside the box.’ Bring paper and pencil along when you meet with Mariah Bumps in the Office of Career Services, so you can take notes; she will also arrange practice interviews for you.  Fellowship websites, the GFC, GFA and OCS can help you be informed about the kind of interview to expect for a particular award. There is no formula that guarantees success.  However, finding your own voice and telling the committee honestly what your hopes and ambitions are is always better than delivering an overly rehearsed piece.