Student Affairs Retention Scholarship
Students apply for the scholarship during the University’s annual scholarship cycle, which takes place every February. Each year, the university awards nearly $3 million in scholarships for the following academic year. The Student Affairs Retention Scholarship specifically prioritizes sophomores, juniors and seniors who are active participants in Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) or hold on-campus student positions within Student Affairs. Additionally, academic excellence is a key consideration.
The selection process is comprised of a committee of professionals within Student Affairs departments to ensure fairness and that the recipients demonstrate a strong need. This year, the review committee includes 10 members who have graciously offered to dedicate their time to carefully assess each application. Applicants are often students who work closely with professionals in the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, so the reviewers have the opportunity to see first-hand what current challenges the students are facing, from financial difficulties to balancing academics and social engagements.
One of the most striking trends Nelson has observed over the years is the volume of applicants for a single scholarship. This year, the Student Affairs Retention Scholarship received 136 applicants. “It hasn’t been uncommon for that to range from 100 to 200 applications,” Nelson says. “There is a definite demonstration of need for additional scholarship opportunities at this University, and specifically the Student Affairs Retention Scholarship.”
Since its inception, this scholarship has been able to help one student per academic year based on funding and donations provided. Nelson remarked that additional donations could allow the scholarship to support more students in need.
With a goal of this scholarship being to allow students to work less and focus more on academics and the college experience, it focuses on recognizing students who are engaged in campus life. A past recipient shared their involvement in Fraternity and Sorority Life and participation in other RSO’s. This recipient expressed how being a member of Fraternity and Sorority Life has helped them build lifelong friendships and engage in community service. Additionally, this recipient is involved in the debate team, which they credit has helped them hone their public speaking skills and develop an appreciation for diverse perspectives.
Student Affairs professionals contribute to the scholarship in addition to actively participating in the selection process. “The Student Affairs Retention Scholarship demonstrates the commitment and care of Student Affairs professionals on our campus,” Nelson says. “One thing we see often in student reflections is the impact that student organizations, community engagement and Student Affairs professionals have had on students’ experiences at Minnesota State Mankato.”
Consider donating to the Student Affairs Retention Scholarship to help engaged students complete their degrees at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
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