Scholarship Tips
Thanking Your Benefactor
Thanking people is very important. Writing thank you notes and letters can make all the difference to donors, who appreciate hearing from recipients and are interested in knowing how their scholarship funds have affected the students' lives. When donors know that their contributions are making a difference, they are encouraged to continue their support.
When writing a thank you letter please remember the following tips:
- Address the note/letter to Dear Mr. or Mrs. or to the specific scholarship committee. Never use a first name
- Choose a conservative note card, not one that is loud or wild. The note should be on fine quality paper on a light tone, such as white, off-white, crème or ivory.
- You may either type or handwrite the note, which is sometimes more personal and shows a little extra effort. Use a good quality pen in dark blue or black ink
- Keep the note short
- Spell everything correctly. Have a friend or family member proof read the note before you mail it
- Write something specific about yourself that will make you unique
- Sign the note/letter by hand and print your formal name
- Put your return address on then letter and envelop in case the donor wishes to reply
- Put adequate postage on the envelope. If you can use a commemorative stamp
- Mail the thank you note within 24 hours after the receipt of your scholarship
Outlined below are some suggestions for writing a letter of gratitude:
Paragraph 1:
Thank the donor for his/her generosity in proving you with these funds and explain how this scholarship made a difference in your education.
Paragraph 2:
Tell the donor some personal information about yourself. You can give a brief description of where you come from and your specific major.
Paragraph 3:
Give the donor some information concerning your future goals and how the scholarship has affected these goals.
Paragraph 4:
Thank the donor again.
It may also be beneficial for you to thank a scholarship committee or donor even if you did not receive the scholarship. While expressing regret in not receiving the scholarship, you may also thank the donor for taking the time to review your scholarship application, and to ask that he/she keep you in mind if any future scholarships become available.