By Leianne Grace Dianne V. Asuro I Mind Over Matter
Scholarships should be a symbol of merit and perseverance, not a privilege granted through connections.
For years, the myth has persisted that scholarships are only for those with influential friends or family ties.
The notion that scholarships—particularly the Comprehensive Assistance Program for Identified Scholars (CAPIS)—are solely reserved for those with connections or government backing is frustrating and misguided. I’ve seen many deserving students, especially my friends, work tirelessly to secure scholarships, only to be met with skepticism and doubt from others.
People often say, “Oh, nakapasa na siya kay basi may backer. Pila na ko kabeses gani ka-apply, wala guid.” But the truth is, securing a scholarship requires a tremendous amount of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
I can attest to this from personal experience. I passed the exam for a scholarship without any government connections or backing. I submitted all the required documents, met the eligibility criteria, and demonstrated academic excellence. It wasn’t easy, and I had to put in a lot of effort to ensure that my application stood out. And I did, I passed. Three years now, and I’m proud to say I’m a scholar.
But it’s unfair to assume that students who receive scholarships are somehow “lucky” or have “connections.”
Scholarship programs have strict eligibility criteria and rigorous selection processes in place to ensure that the most deserving students are awarded. It’s not just about passing the exam; it’s about demonstrating need, meeting specific requirements, and showcasing one’s potential.
Moreover, the idea that most scholars receive their awards due to “back up” or connections is not only hurtful but also damaging. It undermines the hard work and achievements of students who have earned their place through merit and dedication. It’s essential to recognize that scholarships are not handouts, but rather investments in a student’s future potential.
At the same time, it’s also important to acknowledge that there might be some students who do have connections and may benefit from them.
However, it’s not fair to generalize that all students who receive scholarships have connections. There are many students, like me, who have worked hard and earned their place without any government backing or influence. We should celebrate the achievements of all students who have secured scholarships, regardless of whether they had connections or not.
Let’s not forget that there are many deserving students who have done their best to secure scholarships without any connections. They have spent countless hours studying, preparing for exams, and gathering requirements. Their hard work and determination should be recognized and celebrated.
Ultimately, the focus should be on creating opportunities and support systems for all students, rather than perpetuating negative stereotypes and assumptions.
By doing so, we can empower others to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in their communities.