Although this is the shortest application period Bliss had ever had (Bliss’ application period pre-pandemic starts in November through February), we were so surprised by the sheer number of the applicants who sent in their applications. It’s just so exciting for all of us to be able to do this again. For us to be able to be of service for more students in need.
In the three weeks that our online application was open, we received 81 applications, 3 of which were unfortunately ineligible for the scholarship for now, still leaving us with 78 students who we will have to select scholars from. And “selecting” is hard. In fact, describing it as a hard thing to do is an understatement. It’s heartbreaking to have to choose from everyone who are all in need. It’s a type of pain that just can’t easily be shaken off.
Every time we get to the point of choosing our scholars, we can’t help but tear up and sometimes, even cry. It’s ironic that choosing the scholars means we are helping out, however, not being able to help most of them still gives a pang of helplessness. As much as we want to help everyone, we can only choose a few to ensure that we can fill their needs and not fall short. It may seem sad and painful, but I have actually learned that this feeling of wanting to help more gives me the motivation to speak more about our cause. I love our cause so much that I find myself being more outspoken and take on more opportunities than ever before. I’m sure that’s what Dr. Peck meant when he said…
“Let your dreams be bigger than your fears and your actions louder than your words.”
Dr. Morgan Scott Peck
Anyway, we wish all our applicants luck! Excited to see you on May 14!