University of Pretoria MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

Your Scholarship Journey Doesn’t Start with an Essay

“If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first four sharpening the axe.”  Abraham Lincoln Your scholarship journey doesn’t start with an essay. I learned this firsthand.I was awarded the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship to study International Law in the United Kingdom during the 2022/2023 academic session, but it did not happen on my first try. The first year I applied, I thought I had done everything right. I started preparing about a month before the scholarship deadline, which to me then seemed early enough. I wrote my essays diligently and submitted before the deadline.However, I was utterly disappointed when I received a rejection email a few months later. I asked myself, “How could they? I put in a lot of effort.”I applied again the following year, and this time, I was successful. So, what changed? Two things: information and preparation.In my second attempt, I began preparing almost a year ahead. I had realised that every scholarship application needs a hook, and how well you fit into that hook and its appeal to the selection committee often determine your chances. In other words, you need a relevant niche and a coherent, compelling story that ties together your experiences, interests, reasons for applying, and future aspirations.All these take time. So, if you are planning to apply for a scholarship, here is my advice: start early. Do not wait until the call for applications opens. Identify your theme and your overall story, because they are not the same. Read till the end and I will briefly explain the difference. Then highlight any gaps and start working to fill them.Every activity you engage in, including volunteering, short courses, and work experiences, becomes a building block for your narrative. And if your path is not perfect or linear, that is okay. What matters is how you tell your story. Explain the gaps and show growth and purpose.When the time comes to write your essays, do not rush it. Gather information. Read successful applications and consult others who have been through the process, either in person or through their online content on platforms such as YouTube or LinkedIn.Finally, remember that applying for scholarships takes resilience and patience. Some people get it on their first try, while others, like me, get it after learning from failure. Most importantly, put your best foot forward and leave the rest to God.Bonus tip: In this context, your theme is the niche or central focus that runs consistently through your entire application. Your story is the narrative that ties together your experiences, your motivation for applying, and your future aspirations.