• You must be passionate about what you are studying: Summer courses are intense, assignments come quickly and my courses had lots of reading - I attended two courses, four times a week, and in my Development and Diversity Course, I had new readings for each class. I thoroughly enjoyed what I was learning/studying, and this made my weekly readings much easier - I couldn't wait to read and discuss the literature. This is why you must be passionate about what you are studying and reading; if you are not passionate, you will struggle to keep up with the work. 
• When choosing a university, look into the university's ethos, student/classroom values and summer syllabus: I chose George Washington University as they promote inclusion, lifelong learning and experiences for all. I liked their ethos and values for their students. Also, the courses offered were related to my field of study and I have learned new theories, training methods and have been able to read a plethora of books which have opened new knowledge to me: make sure you look into universities and courses that make you feel inspired, welcomed and can see yourself taking away new skills and knowledge that improve your work skills. 
• Listen to all of your sponsor's advice, stories and most importantly, enjoy his company: He is a very, very, very knowledgeable man, and when he gives you advice, reflect on it and in my opinion, take it - his advice is to better your knowledge, skills and future (trust me), enjoy and treasure his company. 
• Ask questions - learn all you can about the US, where you are staying, the university, go to museums and learn America's history - take it all it! 
• Be yourself - be your true authentic self!

• Commitment: Show dedication to your studies and future career path.

• Community-mindedness: Highlight any volunteering, mentoring, or leadership activities.

• Perseverance: Share challenges you’ve overcome (without self-pity), showing resilience and determination.

• Throw yourself into every opportunity: Make sure you fully engage in your university courses, classroom discussions and put effort into your assignments - the summer flies by and before you know it, classes have finished. Make sure to thoroughly throw yourself into every class, take everything in and talk to your Professors - they have depths of knowledge and understanding.  Similarly, if you are lucky like I was to volunteer, enjoy every minute and throw yourself into it all, get to know the place you are volunteering at: the ethos, workforce, what they do, get to know the staff, etc, this will open your skills and knowledge for your future career and experiences
• Professionalism: You are representing The Garner Family and Fife College - be respectful and thankful. 
• Research the George Lauder Bursary: Learn all about it before applying, who George Lauder was, what the bursary is and if you can read past bursary recipients vlogs. This will give you a wider understanding of the values of the bursary experience. 
• Proofread your Application.

• Integrity – staying true to your values, being honest about both strengths and struggles.

• Initiative – taking extra steps in your learning (online courses, projects, clubs).

• Enjoy it all!

If you would like to discuss anything bursary related, feel free to contact me - I will do my best to reply as soon as I can!