Institute For Emerging Leaders

Voting matters, and South Carolina’s election process is underway, with more than 50,000 ballots cast on the first day of early voting.

Early voting runs May 26–June 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Centers are closed on weekends and state holidays.

Before heading to the polls, review your sample ballot and learn about the candidates. Remember to take a valid photo ID to vote.

Find polling locations, dates, and hours at SC Votes: https://scvotes.gov

The Institute for Emerging Leaders encourages civic engagement and voter education, but does not endorse political parties or candidates.

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Scholarship Application Tips from Dr. Vareva Harris

Winning scholarships can be a competitive process, but with careful preparation and attention to detail, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips for writing a compelling scholarship essay and submitting a competitive application.

1. Start with an Attention-Grabbing Statement: Begin your essay with a culturally appropriate and attention-grabbing statement that highlights a unique aspect of your background or experiences. Avoid clichés and generic openings like "My name is..." Instead, draw the reader in with a captivating anecdote, quote, or question that showcases your personality and sets the tone for your essay.

2. Showcase Your Lived Experiences: Your personal experiences are your most valuable assets when applying for scholarships. Take the time to reflect on significant moments, challenges, or achievements in your life and articulate how they have shaped your goals, values, and aspirations. Be authentic and genuine in sharing your story, and use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture of who you are and what you hope to achieve.

3. Use Culturally Relevant Examples and Language: Tailor your essay to resonate with the scholarship committee by incorporating culturally relevant examples and language that reflect your identity and background. Avoid stereotypes or generalizations, and instead, focus on showcasing your unique perspective and experiences. Use culturally appropriate language and terminology that accurately represent your identity and heritage.

4. Focus on Quality Over Quantity: While it's essential to provide compelling examples and anecdotes in your essay, remember that quality is more important than quantity. Choose one or two well-presented examples that effectively illustrate your points and demonstrate your qualifications for the scholarship. Be concise and to the point, and make every word count within the given word limit.

5. Seek Feedback and Revise: Before submitting your scholarship application, seek feedback from trusted mentors, teachers, or peers. Ask them to review your essay for clarity, coherence, and effectiveness. Revise your essay based on their feedback, making sure to address any areas for improvement or clarification. Taking the time to refine your essay will enhance its overall quality and strengthen your candidacy for the scholarship.

6. If asked to provide a headshot, provide a picture with a simple background and a clear picture of you. Most reviewers do not expect a professional headshot. Usually one taken on your phone is acceptable.

By following these tips and crafting a thoughtful and compelling scholarship application, you can increase your chances of winning scholarships that align with your goals and aspirations. Remember to stay true to yourself, showcase your unique experiences, and present your qualifications in a compelling and culturally relevant manner. You can do this!