Scholarship requirements – Fair or Unfair?

3 comments

Posted by Chanapa Tantibanchachai on Nov 7, 2010 in East Villagers, Education, Featured, Service Scholars, United States | 3 comments

Scholarship requirements – Fair or Unfair?

As mid-November rolls around and I begin my search for scholarships for the 2011-2012 school year, I begin to wonder, “Exactly how fair are scholarship requirements?”  It is undeniable that a large percentage of scholarships are aimed towards those who are in dire need of financial assistance and of a racial minority. Falling into both categories myself, I feel extremely fortunate to be eligible for so many scholarships. Last year, I was privileged enough to receive nearly $19,000 in scholarships and the rest was covered by government aid.

However, a friend of mine wasn’t so fortunate. A run-of-the-mill Caucasian from a middle-class family, my friend finds his scholarship options to be completely frustrating. Although scholarship requirements are often advantageous to someone in my position, I can sympathize with his frustration and wonder just how fair the whole process really is.

In my personal opinion, I don’t feel that scholarships should be as aimed towards minorities as they currently are.  Although I am a minority myself, I would much rather truly earn scholarships out of merit rather than my race. I cannot even fathom the number of Caucasians who are well-rounded individuals with high GPAs and community service down to their feet, yet when searching for scholarships, all that can be found are ones reserved for minorities. Were I to be in such a position, I would feel discouraged and frustrated.

Additionally, I oftentimes question FAFSA’s efficacy; I find it is too objective to students’ financial circumstances. Take, for example, the friend I had mentioned earlier. Though both of his parents worked and had just purchased a new home, they had also moved to a new town where employment was difficult to find. My friend’s father was unable to find stable work and his mother did not keep regular hours. Obviously, they were unable to help him with his college expenses. However, FAFSA only acknowledged what had been in their bank prior to purchasing a house and their household income prior to relocating. Though I am personally ever-grateful for FAFSA, I am not sure how it accurate represents students’ financial situations. Also, this brings the issue of those who are in great financial need, but lack the desire to do well in college and will simply waste the money when it could have gone to someone who is wealthier, yet more motivated.

I feel that the entire mindset of who ‘deserves’ financial assistance for higher education should be redefined considerably.  Not only will this lead to more just methods of determining which students receive the aid, but it will also impact the overall quality of students who attend universities.

Photo from: http://www.albionpleiad.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/money.JPG

Chanapa Tantibanchachai
Team 1: Education
Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona

About the author

Chanapa Tantibanchachai Chanapa Tantibanchachai, 18, Arizona State University, Bullhead City, AZ - The EV Service Scholar Intern Program combines two of my primary passions: writing and volunteering. As an intern, I will be able to accomplish both simultaneously while developing new skills and growing professionally. From this internship program, I hope to gain more knowledge of global issues, the current solutions to them, and help brain-storm new, innovative solutions. I desire to further develop my critical thinking skills, embrace my passion of writing, and to learn more about the world I live in and the available opportunities to further contribute positively.

3 Responses to “Scholarship requirements – Fair or Unfair?”

  1. Phillip says:
    November 8, 2010 at 4:18 pm

    I think it is a tough situation. Private groups or organizations should have a right to give scholarships to whoever they want. As for the government and FAFSA low income status is probably the best criteria to look at in order to balance fairness and efficiency.

    reply
  2. Karina L says:
    November 10, 2010 at 9:33 am

    I agree with you! In the 21st century, diversity should be something more than just the color of our skin. Obviously, even people with the same skin color have diverse experiences, so scholarship awards should be based on merit.

    reply
  3. Tahsena Mahen says:
    December 7, 2010 at 5:58 pm

    I think its unfair. There are some great scholarships out there that I really want to apply for. But because of these specific requirements I am unable to use my abilities to write it all out. I am sure there are people out there like me with great potential for every scholarship there is. There are people who deserve it but can not express themselves.

    reply

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