As many of you know, I was accepted into the Simon Scholarship program in May. While I don't intend to gloat with this blog, I'd once again like to emphasize the importance of a strong civic transcript! This is my story:
My interview was very unusual. The planned twenty minutes soon became ninety because of a totally random intruder alert at my school. The board questioned me extensively about the GivingPoint, my service, and the grants and honors I have won over the past two years. Although I can't read minds, I noticed a very distinct sparkle in their eyes when I mentioned raising $500 for a mission trip to South Africa, and an additional $150 toward the PWY campaign at my YMCA. They told me about the service projects the scholars participate in, but seemed more impressed by the dual actions of volunteering extensively, and earning and donating money to worthy causes even when my time is unavailable.
Where does the civic transcript fit into my story? It doesn't. In fact the civic transcript wasn't even mentioned during the interview, but it most certainly was afterward. Put bluntly, eloquent speech may charm the interviewers, but be aware that you'll only benefit from your interview if your achievements can be proven. The civic transcript is like a secret agent; it is usually invisible, only appearing when the time is right-- please disregard my failed use of simile! The transcript won't earned you a job or a scholarship, but it will eliminate any doubt that you are anything less than the self-less, empathetic person advertised.
If you need any more convincing, ask Danielle Reed, and Ryan Lee, two Leaders from the Ashford-Dunwoody YMCA who received $1,000 scholarships from the Metro Atlanta YMCA this year. One of the requirements was the civic transcript! Programs and foundations will be asking for civic transcripts in increasing numbers as knowledge of MyGivingPoint spreads. The possession of an updated civic transcript changed my life; there is no reason why it couldn't do the same for yours.