More than $300,000 of scholarship money will be awarded this year to students at Moorpark and Ventura Colleges, but according to the scholarships office, there are few students applying, due to fears of the application process.
These scholarships are not only useful for students hoping to transfer, but for students continuing their stay at community college as well. Margaret Ramos, the scholarship coordinator at Moorpark College, is looking forward to another successful year for students receiving scholarships.
“Many students think scholarship is an intimidating word,” said Ramos.
She has found that most students are concerned with the application process, causing a decrease in those applying. Jovita Valdez, scholarship coordinator at Ventura College, feels the same way as Ramos, who believes filling out the application is the most important part, and beneficial in other ways, too.
“When you apply, it’s good practice for when you apply for a job,” said Valdez.
“Always watch your G.P.A,” said Ramos. “Don’t apply if you are not eligible for the scholarship.”
According to Ramos, over 200 students come into the office and ask questions about scholarships available to them, and she works with each student, one-by-one, to find out their future plans and their current status with school. Within this short meeting, Ramos can help students find the perfect scholarships they qualify for, which is the first step in Ramos’s scholarship process.
“Don’t be fooled by the title of the scholarships,” said Valdez.
The next step is the most important part of the Scholarship process, according to Ramos and Valdez. They can’t stress enough to students how important it is to make a great impression through the written essay required in the application process. According to Ramos, this is where most students find themselves drifting away from applying.
“The essay must show strong passion and commitment,” said Ramos.
The donors of these scholarships want to see that students have the drive to continue their schooling and are extremely committed to their future. It is important to make sure the essay is grammatically correct, neat, organized, and easy to read. Valdez has found that many of the donors will disqualify an essay if they cannot read it. This is the time for students to sell and prove themselves amongst steep competition.
Students who are unsure about what to incorporate in their essay or need help on the application process are encouraged to attend the Scholarship Workshop at Moorpark College on March 2 at 1 p.m.
When the entire application is completely filled out and the essay is at its best, it must be submitted on time. There are many deadlines to scholarships, and the student must meet them all.
For students interested in applying, visit Margaret Ramos at the Moorpark College Scholarship Office, LMC 106, or visit Jovita Valdez at the Ventura College.
