Hey everyone,I wanted to ask if I should thank the person who gave me my scholarship.I recently got a scholarship I never even applied for, and it looks real (Paul Hagan Scholarship). Since I didn’t sign up for it, I’m still kind of shocked. My grades got a lot better, and I finished last semester with a 3.5 GPA. This is a need-based scholarship, and my school gives these to students who qualify, but after being in school for a few years with about the same GPA, I never got anything like this before. I’m a bit hesitant to reach out and thank them because I’m still kind of confused about how I got it. This is my first scholarship, and in the back of my mind, I keep thinking maybe it was a mistake. Should I wait a bit before I send a thank-you note, or should I go ahead and do it now?
If you send a thank-you letter, try handwriting it. My son did that and actually ended up getting another scholarship. People really appreciate being thanked, and it doesn’t happen as often as it should.
I work in fundraising, and when people take the time to say thank you, it really makes a difference. Donors feel good about their decision, and sometimes they even give again, which helps more students.If you can find out where to send a thank-you note, I’d definitely do it. And by the way, congrats!
@Mica
Thanks for the advice! I found a ‘contact us’ link on their website. Should I send my thank-you message that way?
Denali said:
@Mica
Thanks for the advice! I found a ‘contact us’ link on their website. Should I send my thank-you message that way?
Yeah, I think that’s a good idea. Maybe say something like: ‘I just got this scholarship, and I’m really grateful. I’d love to thank the donor or whoever made this decision. Can you help me find out who to contact, or could you pass along a letter if I send one?’And again, congrats!
@Mica
Thank you so much! I still can’t believe it. It feels like all my hard work is finally paying off. Accepting the award made it feel real, and my school even reached out to them when I had questions, so it’s definitely legit. I just sent an email to thank them!
@Denali
That’s awesome! One small suggestion—when you’re in a position to do so, try to pay it forward. It doesn’t have to be a full scholarship, but even helping someone out in a small way can make a big difference.
@Mica
For sure. My college journey has been rough—I’ll have been in school for six years by the time I graduate because I had to work full-time (60 hours a week) just to afford everything. If I can help someone, even a little, I know they’d appreciate it. I’ve always wanted to use my money to give back, whether through charities, helping those in need, or supporting students. I can’t afford it now, but I’m pushing myself to get a good job after school so I can give back just like these people helped me!