Friday, April 02, 2004
Yay for the book-love
A letter I actually attached to my scholarship application, in which I was supposed to describe why I deserve the English Department's money. I hope I get originality points for this:
Dear Scholarship Committee:
I understand that in order to qualify for the English major merit-based scholarship, I must include this letter with my application: an explanation of why I, a third-year student with a double major, who splits her time between the art building and Parlin Hall, am worthy of support from the English Department.
I could say that the reason I should be awarded the scholarship is because of my stellar grade point average and my outstanding work in all of my English courses. I've received University Honors for every semester but one and have been invited to the Honors Convocation for two years now; I could list those, too, as reasons I should earn a scholarship. They are valid reasons; I am proud of the work I have accomplished at the university and the standards I have set for myself.
But to tell the truth, I want scholarship money not because I have excelled, but so I can buy books.
Yes, the English major is about succeeding in one's classes and demonstrating a dedication to learning. However, the main reason I am in this department stems from the fact that I am, and always will be, an avid reader. As I complete each English course, I discover a new author whose work I have fallen in love with; my bookshelves overflow with literature -- books whose covers I have not yet opened and well-worn novels I have read countless times. In books I find knowledge and enlightenment; terror and desperation; passion and intensity. Through books, I uncover secrets within myself. And I am always accumulating more: I find myself spending every spare penny at Half-Price Books or Barnes and Noble.
In the English Department, I am at home. I am among people who recognize and understand the wonder of books, who adore them as I do. The fulfillment and excellence I find in my English major is fuelled by this fervent enjoyment.
I deserve a scholarship because I love books.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Theresa Krenek
| 10:19 AM |
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Who am I? I'm a twenty-two-
