Characteristics of Successful Applicants
Although scholarships and fellowships list different criteria for evaluating applicants, successful applicants most often demonstrate:
Academic achievement
- High GPA (typically above a 3.5) and a challenging curriculum
- Capacity to succeed in challenging academic environments
Committed Leadership and Civic Engagement
- Engagement in academic departments, campus organizations, and/or the community
- Participation beyond membership or affiliation
- Demonstrated capacity to implement positive change
- Commitment to a particular cause or issue
- Promise of a lifetime of service and leadership
Research and/or Practical Experience
- Lab research, independent study, assistantships, internships, exhibitions, concerts
- Ability to conduct independent research and work – e.g. an Honors thesis, distinction project, or advanced portfolio review
National and Global Awareness
- Study abroad, language study, or work with Syracuse’s international communities
- Understanding of how their interests engage with the larger world and current events
The Strong Support of Faculty Members and Staff
- Connection with faculty in major/minor fields through coursework or extracurricular activities
- Close collaboration with one or more faculty mentors on a major project
- Ability to identify at least 3-4 individuals willing to write letters on their behalf
Looking for more advice? Check out the 10 tips for scholarship applicants that SU's first Rhodes Scholar, Elliot Portnoy, shared with CFSA.