OVCEF Scholarship Tips for Oley Valley Seniors

Set yourself up for success! Use these tips to create a strong, thoughtful, and complete scholarship application.


Cover Letter Tips

  • Start Strong: Address your letter to the OVCEF Scholarship Committee or OVCEF Trustees and mention the specific scholarship(s) you're applying for by name.
  • Tell Your Story: Share a meaningful experience that shaped who you are—something tied to family, school, or community. Explain your educational goals and future aspirations, and why this field or career interests you. This is where you begin to set yourself apart from your peers.
  • Connect to Community: Talk about your connection to Oley Valley or how you’ve given back through school activities or community service.
  • Be Sincere & Grateful: Express appreciation for the opportunity and keep your tone genuine and enthusiastic.


Resume Tips

  • Keep It Clean and Easy to Read: Use clear headings such as Education, Extracurriculars, Work Experience, Community Involvement, Awards, Skills.
  • Include What Matters: Focus on leadership, service, and dedication—qualities OVCEF values.
  • Use Action Words: “Organized,” “Led,” “Assisted,” “Volunteered,” etc.
  • Show Impact: Include numbers or results when possible, such as 'Raised $800 for Relay for Life' or 'Tutored 10 peers weekly'.


References Tips

  • Choose 3 Trusted Adults: These could be teachers, coaches, employers, club advisors, or community leaders who know your character.
  • Include Full Contact Information: List their name, title/relationship to you, phone number, and email address.
  • Ask for Permission: Let them know you’re using them as a reference and confirm they’re comfortable being contacted.


Interview Tips

  • Know Your Application: Be ready to expand upon what you wrote in your cover letter and resume.
  • Speak with Confidence: Share your passions, goals, and how the scholarship would help you succeed.
  • Reflect Oley Valley Values: Highlight community involvement, integrity, and dedication.
  • Bring Gratitude and Questions: Thank the committee and ask thoughtful questions if given the chance.