Scholarships are huge opportunities that require a certain level of planning, So if you are a university student who is hoping to explore scholarship opportunities soon, you will some valuable tips in this blog post.
Thousands of scholarship applications are sent out every year and thousands of applicants deserve that opportunity as much as you do. So if you plan to “fit in” or “follow the script” when you are applying for your next international scholarship, it’s time to change your strategy.
Of course, good grades are good and they matter a lot in your scholarship application, but have you stopped to consider the fact that other applicants have impressive grades too? If good grades are all you have to offer, you are just like any other applicant.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about extracurricular activities and how they carry your scholarship application from “paper candidate” to “perfect candidate”.
The Importance of Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are not just hobbies; they are essentials that can help you present a more well-rounded and impressive scholarship application. Scholarship committees are not only looking for candidates who are impressive academically, they are also looking for people who are committed to their communities and are passionate about making a difference. Here’s how you can leverage extracurriculars to your advantage:
Also read: Fully Funded Scholarships in Australia 2023
- Community Engagement and Volunteering
Volunteering and community service are powerful ways to show that you are interested in driving positive change. Whether you intend to participate in beach cleanups, mentor secondary school kids, or participate in gender-based activism, gathering these kinds of experiences will reflect your commitment to making the world a better place.
- Leadership Roles in Student Organizations
Leadership positions within school or university organizations also display your ability to take charge and work effectively with others. So, while you are still in college or university, you might want to strive hard to become a class representative, a student union leader, or lead any club on campus, these roles will highlight your leadership skills and sense of responsibility.
- Sports and Athletic Achievements
Participation in sports teams, competitive athletics, or local tournaments shows qualities like discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. If you have a record of doing well in sports, whether as a star athlete or a team player, these achievements can set you apart from other applicants.
- Academic Clubs and Competitions
Involvement in academic clubs, debate teams, science clubs, or mathematics competitions displays your love for learning beyond the classroom. If this is something you are good at, you should go for it because it will look fantastic on your college resume.
- Cultural and Artistic Pursuits
Your cultural and artistic talents also look great on your scholarship applications. Whether you are great at traditional dance, have impressive artistic skills like painting, or have a talent for making music, these talents portray you as a creative person.
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Nigerians are known for their entrepreneurial spirit. If you’ve brought a business idea to life, launched any innovative project, or created solutions to local challenges, these experiences will go a long way in displaying your problem-solving skills.
Also read: Lists Of Scholarships In the United Kingdom 2023-2024 For International Students
Real-life Examples of Extracurricular Activities That Look Great on Scholarship Applications
Now, let’s take a look at Chinwe’s story, a Nigerian student who transformed her extracurricular activities an into international scholarship opportunity.
Chinwe’s Healing Touch: Through medical outreach programs, Chinwe provided free healthcare to underserved communities, earning her a scholarship to study public health abroad.
Also read: 5 Tips To Help You Ace Your Next International Scholarship Interview
Extracurricular activities can be the “wow factor” that will set you apart from thousands of applicants. They show character, skills, and a commitment to making a difference. As you prepare to send out your next scholarship application, remember to showcase your extracurricular engagements.
