What College Students Should Know About Scholarship Video Essays 

 Posted on May 24,2024 in Uncategorized

Scholarships can be a pivotal resource for college students. Among the various application requirements, many scholarships now ask for video essays instead of traditional written essays as part of their selection process. Video essays allow applicants to showcase their personalities and talents in a dynamic way that goes beyond the traditional written essay. However, some students may find creating a video essay daunting. Here are some key points to remember to help you ace your next video essay submission. 

Understanding the Prompt and Criteria of Video Essays

Before you even press the record button, keep these things in mind:

• Make sure you thoroughly understand what the scholarship committee is asking for, including specific prompts and criteria. Read the instructions carefully!

• Pay special attention to the requirements of the video essay, as this will ensure that whatever you create is as creative as it needs to be, as long as required, and of high overall quality. 

• Consider writing out an outline to give yourself a visual interpretation of how you want your video essay to be structured.

Plan Your Script for the Video Essay

Do not make the mistake of “winging it” when it comes to your scholarship video essay. Instead, try the following: 

• Start by drafting a script that answers the prompt and conveys your unique story and personality, highlighting your achievements, goals, and why you are a deserving candidate. 

• Be concise and engaging in your storytelling, and remember to be authentic. 

• Consider reading your script out loud to make sure it sounds natural. 

Focus on Making Your Video Essay High-Quality 

A well-produced video essay can significantly enhance your overall message and your chances of winning. Make sure you:

• Use a good-quality camera that produces a clear visual.

• Use an external microphone so that your voice can be heard crisply. Built-in microphones may be of lower quality.

• Choose a quiet location to minimize background noise. You do not want the viewer to be distracted from listening and watching your video essay. 

Edit and Review Your Scholarship Essay 

After filming, take time to review and edit your footage. Consider the following:

• Trim any unnecessary parts to keep your video within the time limit. If you are able, it may be wise to use editing software to add finishing touches to the video essay.

• Go easy on transitions. While a few well-placed transitions can enhance your video essay, do not overdo it. 

• Edit out any unnecessary pauses, filler words, or mistakes to keep your video concise and to the point.

The OVC Scholarship Network is Your Portal to Finding Your Ideal Scholarship

Gone are the days of endlessly scouring the internet for scholarships you may qualify for. With the OVC Scholarship Network, we take the pain out of the process to better enable you to find the scholarship that best fits your needs. Call us at 630-517-2702 to get started today.