Video essays & recommendation letters
Some scholarships ask for a short video instead of (or as well as) a written essay, and many want one or two references. Here’s how to handle both without stress.
Video essays
- Follow the prompt’s limits exactly. If the sponsor sets a maximum length, file type or upload site, stay inside it. Going over can get you skipped.
- Write it first, then talk it. Draft the story the same way you’d draft a written essay (our outline builder works for this), then practice saying it in your own words. Don’t read a script word for word on camera.
- One story, one point. Open with a specific moment, explain what you did, and end with what it means for your plans.
- Sound beats picture. A quiet room matters more than a fancy camera. Face a window or a lamp, keep the camera at eye level, and hold the phone sideways unless the sponsor says otherwise.
- Do a test clip. Record 10 seconds, play it back with headphones, and fix the noise or light before the real take.
- Keep editing simple. Captions help if the platform allows them. Skip music and effects unless the prompt invites them.
- Check privacy. If you upload to a video site, use the sharing setting the sponsor asks for (often "unlisted"), and test the link in a private browser window.
Recommendation letters & references
- Pick people who know your work. A teacher, coach, supervisor or counselor who can give specific examples beats a famous name who barely knows you.
- Ask early and in person (or by a polite email). Give them plenty of notice before the deadline and ask if they can write a strong letter.
- Send a one-page brag sheet. List the scholarship, its deadline and how to submit, plus 3 to 5 things you’d like them to mention. Our essay toolkit has a copy-ready request template.
- Check how it’s submitted. Many portals email the recommender a private link. Make sure you typed their email correctly, and don’t ask to see a confidential letter.
- Track it and remind once. Note who you asked and when. A friendly reminder a few days before the deadline is fine.
- Say thank you, and tell them how it turned out.
- References (no letter): if a form only asks for contact details, still ask the person first so they expect the call or email.
Trade school and apprenticeship applicants
An instructor, shop supervisor or employer who has watched you work is often the best reference. Ask them to mention safety habits, reliability and specific skills.