40 Who you are Give the financial aid committee some idea of who you are, informing them of any special family circumstances or if you belong to an under-represented ethnic group at the school. Examples: “My parents moved here from Pakistan to offer me a better quality of life and greater opportunities. I’ll be the first one in my entire family to achieve higher education.” “After my 18th birthday, I moved to Connecticut from Iceland in order to have more opportunities. Being Icelandic, Polish, and Japanese is a big part of my identity and these ethnicities are greatly under-represented at the University of Connecticut.” Your financial situation Let them know how you’re currently supporting yourself, whether you receive support from family, and details of any savings you might have (like a 529 College Savings Plan). Examples: “I have worked to help support my family since I was 16 and currently work as a delivery driver every night. My parents try to help me every month but some months are tighter than others for them. Their lack of education and english-speaking skills meant that they both have worked minimum wage jobs and have very little savings for college.” “I currently work at a record store where I make a little more than minimum wage. My parents send me about $50.00 a month to help out, but I still don’t have enough saved up to pay for college.” Your career goals and skills Mention your academic/career goals as well as any special skills or life experiences you’ve had that have given you the qualities of dedication and leadership. Granting financial aid is a big responsibility, so they need to know that you are devoted to your education. Examples: “My parents have taught me leadership skills since day one, always teaching me to follow my goals and work hard or what I want and need in life. Coming to America as a young boy, I quickly learned the value of stepping up to meet all kinds of challenges. I have an insatiable thirst for knowledge and want to share that knowledge with others someday as a teacher.” “Moving to a new country by myself made me realize that only I can be the trailblazer for myself. I am a natural leader and am determined to achieve a degree in architectural engineering so I can build a better life for myself and my family.” Your justification for seeking aid Explain any difficulties you’re experiencing that affect your ability to pay for college. This can be anything from a change in your family’s income or any unexpected expenses (like a recently diagnosed medical condition). However, avoid mentioning expenses not having to do with education (like car loans). Examples: “I had saved up enough to pay about half of the tuition for this year; however, I have recently been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and almost all of that money has gone toward medication and doctor’s visits. I can still pay a very small portion of this year’s tuition but am seeking financial aid for the remaining portion that I cannot provide.” “My weekly wages and monthly parental support are enough to cover basic living expenses. I picked up extra hours at work last winter, spring, and summer, and can pay for a portion of this year’s tuition. However, I am seeking aid for the remainder that I cannot pay on my own.” How you’ll benefit Explain how you would benefit from receiving financial aid. Examples: “Receiving financial aid will allow me to continue my education and be the first person in my family to obtain a degree.” “Financial aid will mean that I can switch to a part-time work schedule and focus more on my schoolwork.” Closing statement Recognize the seriousness of what you’re asking them and thank them in a polite, professional tone. Examples: “Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to discussing my opportunities with you.” “Thank you for your time and consideration.”