Scholarships are a valuable resource for students seeking to pursue higher education but facing financial constraints. While there are various types of scholarships available based on academic performance, financial need, or extracurricular achievements, some scholarships stand out by requiring a video submission as part of the application process. These video scholarships offer unique opportunities for students to showcase their creativity, communication skills, and passion for their chosen fields. In this article, we will explore the concept of scholarships that require video submissions, the benefits they offer, and examples of such scholarships.
The Growing Trend of Video Submissions in Scholarship Applications
Traditional scholarship applications typically consist of essays, letters of recommendation, and academic transcripts. However, in recent years, scholarship providers have begun to incorporate video submissions into the application process. These video scholarships give applicants the chance to present themselves in a more dynamic and personal way than through written words alone.
Video submissions allow scholarship providers to gauge the applicants' personality, communication skills, and ability to convey their ideas clearly and confidently. This trend has grown particularly popular among organizations and companies looking for creative, innovative, and engaging content that aligns with their values and goals.
Why Do Scholarships Require Video Submissions?
There are several reasons why scholarship providers opt for video submissions as part of their application process. Some of these reasons include:
1. Showcasing Personality and Creativity
One of the most significant benefits of a video submission is that it allows applicants to showcase their personality, creativity, and enthusiasm in a way that a written essay cannot. For example, a student applying for a scholarship in the arts or creative fields can demonstrate their artistic skills, passion, and originality through video. Similarly, a student applying for a business-related scholarship might use a video to demonstrate their communication skills and leadership qualities.
2. Improving Communication Skills
Creating a video requires applicants to effectively communicate their ideas and messages in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. This exercise helps students develop essential communication skills that are vital in their academic and professional lives. Through a video, applicants can demonstrate how well they can present themselves and convey complex information, making it an excellent opportunity for personal growth.
3. Engaging a Wider Audience
Videos are a highly engaging form of content, and many scholarship providers seek to engage a broader audience through them. By requiring applicants to submit a video, scholarship providers can make the selection process more interactive and accessible. Additionally, video submissions often allow applicants to reach a larger audience through social media, where the videos can be shared and viewed by others.
4. Encouraging Diversity and Inclusion
Video submissions can also contribute to diversity and inclusion by allowing applicants to express themselves in different formats. While some students may struggle with writing or may not feel confident expressing their thoughts in an essay, a video provides an alternative medium for students to present their ideas in a more comfortable and authentic way. This allows for a more diverse group of applicants to participate and have a fair chance in the selection process.
How to Succeed in Video Scholarship Applications
While video submissions offer a unique opportunity, they can also be challenging. To help applicants succeed in these types of scholarship applications, here are some essential tips:
1. Plan Your Content
Before recording your video, take some time to plan what you want to say. Make an outline of the key points you want to cover and think about how to present them in a clear and engaging way. This will help you stay focused during the recording and ensure that your video is well-structured.
2. Be Yourself
Scholarship providers want to see the real you, so it's important to be authentic and genuine in your video. Don't try to be someone you're not or imitate others. Instead, focus on highlighting your unique qualities, experiences, and passions. Show your enthusiasm and let your personality shine through.
3. Keep It Short and Engaging
Most scholarship providers will specify the maximum length for the video submission. It's essential to adhere to this limit and keep your video concise. While it's tempting to include as much information as possible, remember that attention spans are short, and you want to keep the viewer engaged. Aim for a video that is both informative and captivating.
4. Pay Attention to Quality
The quality of your video is crucial. Make sure the lighting is good, the sound is clear, and the video is in focus. Choose a quiet location where you won't be interrupted and ensure that the background is appropriate. A well-produced video will reflect your professionalism and effort.
5. Practice and Rehearse
Before you hit record, practice your script or outline a few times. This will help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera and reduce nervousness. Rehearsing also gives you the opportunity to fine-tune your delivery and ensure that you come across as confident and articulate.
6. Edit Your Video
Once you've recorded your video, take the time to edit it. This could include cutting out any unnecessary parts, adding captions, or adjusting the audio and lighting. A polished, well-edited video will stand out and demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to the scholarship.
Examples of Scholarships That Require Video Submissions
Here are some well-known scholarships that require video submissions:
1. The Doodle for Google Scholarship
The Doodle for Google Scholarship invites students to create a Google Doodle (a custom logo) based on a theme chosen for the year. As part of the application process, students must submit a video explaining their design and the inspiration behind it. This scholarship is open to students in grades K-12, and the winner receives a scholarship to help fund their higher education, as well as the opportunity for their doodle to be featured on the Google homepage.
2. The Voice of Democracy Scholarship (VFW)
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Voice of Democracy Scholarship asks students to submit a video speech on a given topic related to American history or government. Applicants are required to record their speech and submit it for review. This scholarship encourages students to develop their public speaking skills while promoting an understanding of American values and the importance of civic engagement.
3. The ScholarshipPoints $10,000 Scholarship Video Contest
ScholarshipPoints offers a video contest where students can create and submit a video about their future goals and why they deserve the scholarship. The winner of the contest receives a $10,000 scholarship to use toward their education. The video submission allows students to be creative and showcase their aspirations in a compelling and memorable way.
4. The Make It Matter Video Scholarship
This scholarship is aimed at students who want to make a difference in their communities. To apply, students must submit a video explaining how they plan to make an impact in the world and what their goals are. The Make It Matter Scholarship encourages students to think about their future roles as leaders and change-makers.
Conclusion
Scholarships that require video submissions provide students with a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity, communication skills, and personality. These types of scholarships are becoming increasingly popular, as they allow applicants to present themselves in a dynamic and engaging format. To succeed in these applications, it's important to plan your content, be authentic, and pay attention to the quality of your video. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of standing out and winning a scholarship that will help you achieve your educational and career goals.