A note from Macey Mayes, outreach chair

(Sept. 28, 2016) LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Scholar shares helpful hints for upcoming application process.
A note from Macey Mayes, outreach chair

My name is Macey Mayes, and I am the 2016-17 Outreach Chair for the McConnell Scholars Program. I was born and raised in Central City, Ky., and I attended Muhlenberg County High School. Currently, I am a junior majoring in political science and minoring in religious studies and LGBTQ studies at the University of Louisville.

To those interested in applying for the McConnell Scholars Program, I encourage you to schedule a date to shadow a current McConnell Scholar to an undergraduate class, tour campus and enjoy a complimentary lunch. You can also meet with a representative from the McConnell Center, Honors Program and Admissions Office.

I also invite you to join us at the McConnell Center’s next event so you can get a taste of what we love doing. Each month, the Center invites notable authors and policy experts to discuss historical and contemporary issues with the greater Louisville and Kentucky communities. These events are free and open to the public.

For those of you interested in beginning your application, I offer the following tips that can help you cultivate a great application that best represents you to the application review board:

  • Resume:
    • Tailor your resume to the program/scholarship. Keep your resume short: two pages maximum.
    • Include examples of leadership roles and service opportunities. Be sure to describe organizations that are specific to your school or region. Those looking over your application recognize well-known clubs such as the National Beta Club but may not recognize “She Became,” a women’s empowerment club founded and specific to Highlands High School (Ft. Thomas).
  • Two letters of recommendation:
    • You are required to submit two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from a high school teacher.
    • Carefully select the people who write your letters of recommendation. It is important that you choose individuals who know you personally or have been involved in your life journey. By selecting someone who knows you well, you allow that individual to provide insight into who you are as a student, leader and person. 
  • 500-word essay:
    • Answer the prompt. While this seems very straightforward, it is imperative that you carefully read and answer all sections of the essay. Keep it simple and relevant—don’t stray off topic.
    • This essay also serves as a writing sample. Avoid grammatical mistakes, as this displays carelessness.
    • Be creative! Write an essay that appropriately answers the prompt but also serves as a way for the application reviewers to get to know you better.
    • Have a trusted teacher review your essay before you submit it.

If you have any additional questions, I encourage you to reach out to the McConnell Center or me.

Good luck with the rest of your high school journey and all of your future collegiate decisions. I hope to see you at the McConnell Center soon! Go Cards!