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 the most demanding academic environments
Committed Leadership and Civic Engagement
- in academic departments, campus organizations, or the community
- participation beyond membership or affiliation
- demonstrated implementation of positive change
- commitment to a particular cause or issue
- the 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 – i.e. an Honors Capstone, senior thesis, or advanced portfolio review
National and Global Awareness
- study abroad, language study, or work with Syracuse’s international communities
- understanding how their interests fit in 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 activity
- have worked closely with one or more faculty members on a major project
- can 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.