Scholarship Essays for College Admissions

Tell us in no more than 500 word what motivated you to apply and describe what contacts you have had with GW. We have told you about the dynamic GW classroom, campus, and city experience; now tell us how you will make use of these resources in meeting your educational goals.

I have had the privilege of living in Africa for the past several years and witnessed the need for political and economic reforms in many countries. The exposure to life in developing countries has made economics and politics very appealing to me. I want to intellectualize my experience and interests to continue to learn about the world from a global perspective. As such, I am seeking an education at George Washington University (GW) in International Affairs to critically study the issues that confront developing countries, to study the cause and effects of foreign policies, and to be equipped to develop solutions to these serious issues. Studying at a prestigious and diverse institution such as GW, which is internationally recognized for its International Affairs Program at the Elliott School of International Affairs, will contribute to my development as a concerned, enlightened and productive leader in the world. Courses in Conflict and Security in Africa, Military Force and Foreign Policy, Introduction to Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, and War and Military in US Society will equip me with the necessary tools to achieve my goal of being an agent for change and helping others help themselves. Also, the Elliott School’s study abroad programs offer the opportunity to broaden my education and give me access to the world’s future leaders from either London or Paris.

The information and hospitality that was extended to me during the Multicultural Open House on November 19, 2005 by Dr. Kathryn Napper, Mr. Rashaan Burroughs and the student leaders solidified my decision to want to become a member of the GW community. The prospective students were friendly and the current students seemed comfortable and at home on the GW campus. The student organizations club fair offered a variety of clubs to choose and participate. I was particularly interested in the Black International Affairs Society (BIAS) Club. Additionally, GW’s non-traditional campus allows me to experience and be a part of the politics, culture and diversity of Washington, D.C. With an interest in diplomacy, economics and security, being in proximity to the U.S. Department of State, the World Bank, and the Library of Congress will augment my studies and be a positive reminder that with hard work I too can be a leader of an international institution. But most importantly, being in a competitive and nurturing classroom environment with professors and students that are open to ideas and having my ideals stretched knowing that we shall all be changed is what I want to accomplish at The GW.

I am really looking forward to studying at The George Washington University. Like GW Alumni Colin Powell, former U.S. Secretary of State, and others I too want to represent The George Washington University and the United States of America.