Scholarship Student Resources

What to consider as you write your answers:

• Timely communication is important. Once you receive your scholarship offer, please prioritize submitting your survey promptly.
• Follow the suggested word count.
• When addressing your donors, be respectful and professional.
  • Do not refer to donors as “you guys”, etc.
• Verify that the donor and scholarship names are spelled correctly.
• Remember that your donor did not select you as the recipient; selection is done by a committee at UNC.
  • However, the donor did provide the funds for the scholarship, i.e., “Thank you for making the XYZ Scholarship possible…”
• Do not use dollar amounts in your responses.
  • Consider using phrases or words like ‘your support’ or ‘your generosity’, rather than using the words ‘money’ or ‘funds’.
• If your scholarship has a donor biography, please read it and recognize this in your survey if applicable.
• If writing a letter for the same scholarship received previously (your scholarship has been renewed), please do not refurbish or use the same responses as in previous year(s). Instead, thank them for their continued support.

What to include in your responses:

• Tell the donor about yourself.
  • Where are you from originally?
  • Family background that you are comfortable sharing.
  • What do you do in your free time?
  • What things do you enjoy?
  • Accomplishments, including motivations or obstacles you have overcome throughout your educational journey
  • Etc.
• Why did you choose UNC and your area of study?
  • How did you decide that UNC was the place for you?
  • How did you decide on your area of study?
  • Your goals for the future, both immediate and long-term, including your career aspirations
• How are you looking to get involved at UNC both inside and outside the classroom?
  • Clubs, programs, attending sporting events, organizing study groups for your classes, volunteering, etc.
• Express your gratitude and appreciation for the support your donor has provided.
  • Be sincere
  • Briefly tell your scholarship donor why the aid you are receiving is important to you and/or your family.
  • Express gratitude. Use the words ‘thank you’.

Before you submit your survey:

• Check your responses for correct spelling and grammar. The literacy demonstrated in your letters is a reflection of all of us.
• Be accurate
• Be genuine and authentic

If you have any questions regarding your gratitude survey, please reference your communications from the Office of Financial Aid, or reach out to them directly. You can find their contact information below.