Hi,
I am filing an appeal for my scholarship and I just finished typing my letter. I would greatly appreciate your feedback on it. I posted it below.
To the Office of Student Financial Aid:
I am writing to appeal the loss of my Gold Scholarship due to not meeting the grade point average and credit hour requirements. I understand I must maintain a 3.3 grade point average for the Gold Scholarship. I fell slightly below with a 3.01 after winter 2016. The Gold Scholarship requires that I earn at least 24 credit hours during the fall and winter academic year. I passed a total of 26 credit hours, but earned 21 credits. I understand the importance of the requirements for the scholarship and I understand that I am solely responsible for not meeting them. Please allow me to explain the circumstances that led me to not meeting the scholarship’s expectations.
During the academic year I was faced with a stress-inducing dilemma that took a toll on me and ultimately my academic performance. My grandfather was rushed to the hospital and suddenly passed away on October 6th, 2015. This was extremely devastating to me. I was very close with my grandfather and I always looked up to him. He was one of the key figures in my life when it came to my education. He always told me how important it is to do well in school so I can build a bright future for myself. I am the first person from my family to attend a university. My grandfather’s support has helped me come this far. It was hard for me to focus to my full potential because I was grieving at the same time. After a few months, I came to the realization that I could not let my grandfather’s untimely death get in the way of my studies. I turned grieving into determination. I decided to give it my all and stay focused on pursuing my education which is what my grandfather would have wanted.
I was unaware that Math 0993 was not a degree accredited course. Had I earned the five credits I thought I was taking, I would be over the required credit hours. I have learned from this experience, and I now read everything in its entirety when I register for courses.
I am currently enrolled in Philosophy 1050 for the summer 2016 term to meet the 24 earned credit hours as well as to obtain a higher grade point average. My average right now for Philosophy 1050 is a 96 percent. I have devised a plan of action to give me a better vision on reaching my goal. I discussed my plan of action with my academic advisor on July 14th. I have attached my plan of action to this letter as well as other supporting documents for your review and consideration.
I understand that these circumstances should not have been an excuse for me not meeting the Gold Scholarship’s expectations, but I hope that you can understand my situation. I realize that this scholarship is a privilege and should not be taken for granted. I have always been very driven to achieve anything I set out to do. If you allow me another chance to receive the Gold Scholarship, I would honor it with the highest regards. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Warmest regards,
Devin XXXXX