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Isabella Staples was awarded an undergraduate Vice Chancellor Scholarship.

What difference has the Vice Chancellor Scholarship made to you?

It's made finance that much easier to navigate. University is expensive and I am paying much less having received the award. Less financial pressure just makes life more enjoyable and I'm able to focus more on my courses and social life and clubs, rather than having to worry about money. 

How did your application stand out?

In my academic statement, I emphasized why I am so passionate to study the major I chose. I gave background on why I wanted to study language. I connected back to my family and I told the truth on everything. I told them straight out that I don't know my future goals yet, as I'm still young - I'm OK with that.

Your tips for a good scholarship application?

• Don’t be afraid to be imperfect on a scholarship application
• Make sure to show your passion for your topic of study. If you're passionate, I think you're more likely to come across as a hardworking and dedicated student. That's definitely the type of student that they are looking for
• Make sure that your personal statement is actually personal, and not just a list of activities and words. Don’t just write “I did this and I was in that club”

What’s been the best part about your Bangor studies so far?

I come from a big city in America which has a very different lifestyle from here. I'm really happy with my choice to come to Bangor. There are so many people you meet from all over the place and the courses have been great. My language classes are small enough that staff can know you on a more personal level, which is amazing for me as a learner. There's something special about your teacher actually knowing your name. Bangor is just so amazing with support. I mean, on all levels, academic, health, social, etc. They're giving you so many resources and so many opportunities.

Why apply?

Remember this: there's absolutely no harm in trying for a scholarship, no matter the amount - any help is help. You don't know until you try. I didn't think I would get this scholarship, but I still applied: it turned out I did get it, and that was great.