The Zinch Report

hey, students are cool! now if only you would get some more scholarship $$ available!

We're working on it.....we're working on it.....

:)

These kids sound amazing, and I truly admire everything they have done and are to become, but I kind of get the feeling that the kids who have already done outstanding things will be the only ones you guys even consider for the scholarships. What about those of us who DON'T have the BEST grades, who haven't yet done anything extraordinary for the world, and who haven't lived through tragic experiences? Does it make us less qualified? Does it seem that, since we haven't had the best GPA through our school years, or haven't gone through an extremely difficult time in our life, that we don't try, don't care, or don't appreciate life just as much? I hope not, because I care just as much, if not more, than a lot of the "smart" kids at my school. I feel like I am just as 'good' as those who are "better" than me. I hope, with everything that is in me, that someday I will change at least one person's life, if not more, for the better. But I haven't accomplished anything such as a "Health Drive" or started any "movements." But I plan to do something big one day, and the only way I feel I can do this, is through college. So I feel that by narrowing the scholarship qualifiers to those who have already succeeded in doing great things, that you are taking away something from the rest of us who truly want to make a difference just as much. If you ignore us, our dreams may be "crushed," as cliche as that may sound.

Whew, that was a lot, but I feels good to get that out there. I'm not saying that you guys will do this, but we all know the kids who stand out always get the recognition first.. leaving those of us who are standing in the back of the room, behind.

Christan...I agree with you 100%. We won't just spotlight the kids who are curing cancer and we certainly won't just select these students for scholarships. I definitely understand what you're saying and we'll definitely keep that in mind. Thanks for your awesome feedback. We appreciate it.

Mick

Everybody deserves a chance... It's just... there isn't enough help to go around, it seems like. Christan, you should consider yourself lucky that you haven't had any tragic experiences to go through. And I'm sure you have parents that are working very hard to help you get through college and stuff... Neither of my parents went to college. One of them is even in prison. One of my biggest worries right now is not only college stuff, but getting health insurance. After I turn 19, I won't have health insurance. I have medicine that I have to take on a daily basis... If I don't take it, it will seriously effect my health and well-being. That medicine costs over $200.

I live with my grandmother... who lives on a fixed income. And I have difficulty working because of my illness. I won't be able to afford that medicine. I'm working on trying to get health insurance... maybe even SSI... but it's very difficult. I haven't applied for very many scholarships at all for this upcoming college year because I have been in and out of the hospital. I'm glad that I at least qualified for a Pell Grant... that'll take care of my tuition at a community college (it won't, however, take care of the dorm that I signed up to stay in. I am considered independent now and I need to take care of myself because my Grandma is getting older... and she has a sick and disabled daughter to worry about. She doesn't need another disabled person (me) on her hands.) I think people who go through hardships should be considered more so than someone who hasn't gone through hardship because their dreams are most at risk.

People who have gone through hardships have faced so many disappointments and torment in their lives... No doubt, they will continue to face more disappointments in the future. My life has been riddled with disappointment, but I try to be optimistic. With every disappointment, you just have to keep thinking... Maybe next time. Or... Maybe things will get better. I hope things will get better.

Thanks for 'listening' and for being so kind in return:) It really is important to me and something I've actually been concerned about, so I just thought I'd share!

Hey Mike,

It seems like we have had similar lives....I have had no advice from my older siblings, parents, coaches, or any other advisor. Everyone at school and work always thought that I was a loser and had no life. It was not until January of 2007 that I changed my life around. I got a better job, I applied to BYU-Hawaii, I got better grades, I read and studied my brains out. I would stay up all night and all day just to learn new things. I would read my textbooks from my AP classes, so I could succeed in life. I was also made fun of when I played sports because the calcium crystals in my ears were knocked out of place and it has affected my balance and coordination. I worked on my balance and promised myself thought I would make the varsity soccer team and play goalie. This position is one of the hardest positions on the soccer field, especially with reaction, coordination, and balance. I worked my heart out every day and when try-outs came, I MADE THE TEAM!!!! We went through the season and won the region 7 championship. We then played in state and made in to the semi-finals. I just wanted to show everyone that I knew that nothing is impossible.

Celey, your reply was awesome! I'm sorry to hear about everything you're going through in your life right now, and have already gone through. You're so very right- I am such a fortunate girl to have parents who are both employed and are working hard to get me to where I need to be. But on the other hand, just because they are trying their best doesn't mean it will actually get me somewhere. We received no FAFSA (financial aid) for me or my twin sister to go to college because we are neither 'poor' enough, or 'rich' enough. Not only will they be putting me and my twin through college at once, but my brother, who is now a junior in college, also needs financial help. That's three kids that are not getting help from the government like we deserve! Neither one of my parents went to college, either. So they both have jobs that don't require a degree. I don't know if you've noticed this, but there aren't a lot of decent paying jobs that are offered without requiring a degree. My mother also suffers from heart disease and is taking large amounts of medicine, that I'm sure cost a large amount of money. I'm not trying to make you have pity on me or anything, but I do realize what it's like to almost never have money for things you want, or sometimes even things you may need.
But yes, I do count my blessings each and every day for having two parents, who are still married, who love me and try hard to support their family.

That's always horrible to hear... And scholarships can be so hard to get because of those really amazing students that have the means and time to be out there doing things like fund-raisers and hours of community service. *I would definitely like to be more involved in helping people, too... But as it is, I have trouble enough trying to help my Grandma out around the house...* Wish I had never gotten sick, but it can't be helped...

Hmm... You know... I think they have some scholarships out there for twins. Well, it's pretty late in the year, so a lot of scholarships are pretty much gone. But... I mean... Next year, that's definitely something you guys should look into. Also, have you heard of fastweb.com? *It's how I found this Zinch place...* It's a free site... designed to help people find scholarships. Like I said... It's late in the year and a lot of scholarships are already gone... but it's definitely something for you to look into for next year.

What college are you going to next year? *Err... I won't ask specifically... I mean... I'm talking... A university or community college?* Community colleges are a lot cheaper than a four-year college.... I mean... Basically, your first two years of college are going to be general course studies... And since community colleges are cheaper... It makes financial sense to attend a community college... and then transfer to a four-year college. It's what I'm going to do...

I know- it totally stinks that you have that illness. But you sound like you're a driven and confident girl, so I know you'll do awesome in whatever you strive for.
Yeah, I've heard there was a twin scholarship, but I couldn't find it. And yes, Fastweb is amazing! It's also how I found out about Zinch.
I plan on going straight into a 4-year university this fall. It's a private Christian college that I've looked forward to going to for about 3 years now. I know it's expensive, and I probably should have gone to a community college close by, but due to certain situations, me and my parents both feel 100% sure it's where I need to be at this point in my life.

By the way, Mick, do you guys have some sort of way for Zinch members to send personal messages to other Zinch users? I feel bad for "talking" back and forth on this blog thing.

Hey everyone my name is mike and I can relate to what everyone is saying. My only difference is that I believe we can only become better people in life if we take what we get in life and mature into better people. I personal went through crazy ordeals all through high school and I have found that looking back at those experiences have made me a more successful person. As badly as we all need these scholarships, we should be thankful that they are giving away money to support students who are "curing cancer" or students who want to make a difference in life. I just wanted to say that I am glad that I have this opportunity to be considered for these scholarships. I hope everyone who truly needs them will be rewarded. Everyone stay positive. College is just another bridge in life that we can cross over.

Yeah, in no way am I trying to be negative about anything, Mike. I am thankful, and I do believe kids who are already doing great things deserve scholarships. The only thing I'm saying is that they shouldn't be the ONLY ones who are considered for this scholarship. So.. don't think I'm trying to put down anyone or anything.

A personal message system or a forum would be nice. Everyone could share information, then. Scholarship information... tips on applications.... Things like that.

I'm a firm believer in que sera sera ("whatever will be will be") and not just because Doris Day sings the song. Depending on who you ask, you could say I've had a hard life, but not nearly as hard as many people I know. Aside from chronic joint pain and headaches, I'm mostly all right. I live with my mother and only really started to get to know my dad at age 11. Nonetheless, I've managed to rise to the number 1 spot in my class. No, I haven't quite changed the world yet, but I'm trying. I've applied for a few scholarships, but nothing so far. I most certainly wouldn't say I deserve a scholarship more than anyone else, but I can promise I'd be grateful for it if got it--just like anyone else who is suffering actually hardship. I'm one of those mega-students, but I most certainly don't have the means to go to the school of my choice right now. I'm going to be spending the first few years of my college life at city college. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but that isn't what I want. I can get into so many schools, but I can't afford to go.

Anywho, que sera sera.

Hey guys - I'm rachel. I just wanted to lend some encouragement to regency and the rest of you guys who are worried about finances. I got into the school of my choice - and it's a private so it cost A LOT to go. I've applied for FORTY-FIVE scholarships and so far I got... THREE. My family can't afford to send me to college either. So I know what you guys are going through. I just wanted to encourage you guys: DON'T ALLOW DOLLAR SIGNS TO INTIMIDATE YOU from going where you want to go. If it's a school you REALLY GENUINELY have your mind set on then you'll find a way to go. Personally, if I don't get the free money then I'm taking out loans because I know where I want to go and I have reasons for going there. I think the experience I'll get at Azusa Pacific will far outweigh the money I'll repay later. Obviously, if you can, TALK WITH YOUR PARENTS and come to an AGREEMENT about what to do if you don't get the free aid you need. In fact, you may be surprised. I was always like "NO LOANS - EVER! THEY'RE EVIL!" but my mom had such a peace about Azusa and a confidence that I was supposed to go there that she said if I had to, I should take out the loans and that we'd work together to pay them off later. Don't give up yet - don't count yourselves out - especially if you're still in high school - you still have some time. Ambitions cost you guys - but what's worst: going for it and failing or not even giving yourself a chance to fail - or succeed. Ultimately, it's up to you though (b/c you'll be out of H.S. and technically an adult - scary, huh?). Anyway, keep fighting for scholarships - good luck - i hope that whatever is making you doubt or worry that you are able to sort it out...

I wonder how many replies this post would have gotten if I hadn't ever said what I first said. Haha.

You won't be missing out on too much... Like I said, the first couple of years of college, you're doing general studies courses, anyway... *Is happy that I will actually be going to college. I'm very excited about it... I can't believe how close it is... I mean, August isn't that far off...* Dude... I've got another idea! We should have like a little section... detailing what excites us most about college...

Personally, I'm looking forward to more in-depth instruction and the college library! *College library... (Drool)* I mean... I've been reading at college level since 5th grade... College! FINALLY! It's about time! :D

I am not sure if this is the right place for it, but I do not know where else to ask. What is this 'Flavor' branch for us to start at the high school. I filled out the form because I am surely interested, but I have yet to recieve any information on it.

Can anyone help? :-)

Thanks so Much for bringing me back!!

Hey everyone, my name is Than (I know it sounds wierd, but it is short for Nathaniel). Firs off, I hope I am not too late in posting this message, but I was really inspired but some of your comments and I wanted to share a few thoughts. Thank you for giving me a chance to reflect on some of my own experiences.

First off, I am actually apart of the Zinch team, and my job is to take Zinch and all of the wonderful students in our "Zinch family" to every college in the country and it has been very exciting!

I can totally sympathize with Christian's comments and understand your feelings. I grew up in a great home and lived a normal life and when I began to apply for college and for scholarships I found it hard to find a story to tell because quite frankly, I didn't have one. But when I finally sat down to write those wonderful college essays I simply told them about my love for life, my excitement for the future, and like Chrisitan mentioned above, how blessed I felt to have been given the life I was dealt. And you know what? I was accepted to the college I wanted to go to, and was even given a scholarship! (much to my surprise) So Christian, don't worry, your honesty in the way you feel is refreshing and you will see that your life will continue to unfold in a way you never imagined and you will look back and be thankful for some of these experiences.

Secondly, (sorry about being so long winded. By the way this is my first ever internet post! Sorry if I am new to some of the online lingo.) in response to Celey's comments, I hope you never feel like attending a community college is a bad thing. All of my brothers and sisters have done it, and not only did it save them a ton of money, but they are all very successful people (one is a teacher in California, and the other is preparing to attend Optometry school in TN). My father in law is an Econ professor at a community college and is just as passionate and knowledgeable about economics as any teacher I ever had at my large private school. Obviously we all want to attend the "prestigious" school, but sometimes, the local Community College is a better "life decision". As Mike said, College is just another bridge in the life that we cross over.

Finally for Rachel, I had a chance last week to attend a conference in So Cal and I met almost the entire admissions staff at Asuza Pacific and boy were they fun. Congrats, and I am confident in saying you made a great choice. (that is if their admissions staff is anything like their school, which I am sure it is!)

Those are some amazing stories. That is why Zinch is so cool... because students are more that just a test score. I see Christian's point though. But Christian, you do have to realize that something like a "Health Drive" is easier to coordinate then it looks. Don't be so down on yourself, and more importantly, don't do it just because it will make you look good. Do it to make a difference.

Then again, it is hard when there is no jaw-dropping story about yourself... or maybe that story would take too much time to tell. For instance, my family simply does not have money because my dad left us. That is not exactly an original story, but I think the people at Zinch are going to choose selectively and wisely. :)

Well, originally, I was a bit disappointed... because I'm one of those 'smart kids'... and I felt like... I could be somewhere better. But these feelings were very brief. I'm an accepting person. I'm just happy that I'll be getting to go to college... experiencing college experiences. *College library... (Drools again)* And again, I'll transfer after my years in the community college are up. So, there's no loss. At all. :)... I'm very happy with my decision.

I'm hoping to get more involved in things when I go to college. I want to be out there. I want to do things. I want to change things. It's going to be fun. I just hope I'll be in decent health... *Hopefully, the new medicine they got me on will help (I was recently hospitalized... :(... Man. That sucked. I'm still not completely well) , and hopefully I'll manage to get some sort of medical insurance. Have to... I'd never be able to afford my medicine...*

Oh wow, everyone is so amazing and I love it! These stories are so wonderful.

I must say that it's a trip reading all of your comments - I never knew people could be so outspoken, caring, or open-hearted.

Christan, in a way I totally understand how you feel. No, I won't go on telling you my whole life story and why I'm sitting here on my stiff computer chair tapping away, but all I will say is this: of course, there is no way of making your life story any more tear-jerking than it is - it's just a flat lie if you do. Scholarships are something that should be awarded for merit, and MERIT ONLY. Life experiences are just things we go through by chance (or through fate - however you wish to look at it) and a sad, sad story should NEVER be a factor in scholarship awards - it should be the TRUTH, the WISDOM, and the LOVE we learn through those things...the MATURITY we gain through the obstacle course of life.

I completely understand that gaining pity is not only a pathetic tool in receiving scholarships, it’s unfair: what choice do you give a scholarship judge when you tell them how hard it is for you to pay the bills with 2 part-time jobs, how tough it is to manage a family of 5 brothers and sisters with a single mother, or how excruciatingly painful it was to witness a friend suicide? What am I getting at here? Well, my point is – it’s human nature to feel empathy towards another, and to use that to your advantage is quite two-faced. Everyone has gone through tough life experiences, but waving them around and showcasing them in a dog-and-pony show will not change your situation or make it any better, see what I’m getting at? I believe that scholarship judges and admissions officers will only be looking at the potential you have…the drive, the passion, and the comity you display towards others will almost always be the determining factors when receiving a scholarship.

But, sympathizing with Celey, you should be gosh darn thankful you haven't gone through any tough life experiences! It’s hard to lose a loved one, and no amount of scholarship money is worth that. But I have hope! And it’s this: learn from the scholarship recipients! Observe what kind of lifestyle they lead, how they made it to the top, where they’re getting their motivation! Learning from the best is THE BEST way in making it to the top! Call it conformity if you want, but I think it’s merely finding out that special ingredient it takes to be truly successful! Don’t sit on your couch and wait for things to happen: go make them happen! Sure, some scholarship recipients may have been awarded that money because they went out and did something amazing, and they may have even done it just to look good on resumes and college apps – but the fact is, they went out and DID IT. And that takes guts, my friends. Think of how better a person you’ll be if you accomplish the feats other people have AND do it with a genuine heart…that’s the definition of success!

One more thing: scholarships/loans/grants are not the only way of making money for college. If you happen to play guitar, or draw, or have a special God-given talent, USE IT! I knew a friend who actually went out on the street with her guitar and held up a sign saying “Need scholarships: will play for money”. She brought a chair, lots of sunscreen, and of course some extra picks just in case some wore out. Guess what? SHE MADE A LOT OF DOUGH! People genuinely understood her situation, and not only did they admire her tenacity, they commended it! So don’t think that it’s impossible to find the money – with a little faith, trust, and pixie dust, everything is possible. Just put your mind to it, and in the words of Marvin Gaye: “Ain’t no mountain high enough!”

Jeezus, I need a hobby. :]

Christian, I totally relate to what you're saying!!! I am also a twin, with a an older brother who's already in college. My mom is going to be putting all 3 of us through college after next year... and even though we're not "poor," we're certainly not "rich."

I've never had to go without, I've always lived comfortably, and the only major hardship I've ever dealt with is that my parents divorced when I was young. But just because I've been blessed with good circumstances, should I not be considered a "deserving" candidate for a scholarship?

I think that often students are treated as stereotypes: either they're rich children who've been pampered all their lives and don't NEED scholarships, or they're children from tragic circumstances, such as poverty, disease, or death, who genuinely NEED scholarships to be able to go to college.

However, there is a very large majority of students who fall somewhere in between... although we're probably going to college with or without scholarships, earning a few would certainly help ease the amount of loans we'll need and the stress that our parents will feel. We shouldn't be overlooked just because a scholarship isn't the difference between attending or not attending college.

These stories are awesome and I basically have the same thoughts. I hope this website helps us all in some way whether it's to meet new people, get new ideas, get inspiration, or find a scholarship. Good luck to everyone! One thing that I find surprising is that most people didn't place their Zinch link. I mean some people say really good things or have good ideas and maybe one of the leaders of Zinch would take a look at their profile, yet the link isn't there. Just a thought. :D

¡Buena suerte a todos!
-Fredy

Wow, some students are truly amazing. Especially fleeing from Iraq, I can only imagine how difficult that is. My aunties, uncles, and cousins had to flee from Vietnam when the communists took over, so I've always been surrounded by stories of escaping, but I have never experienced it myself. Congradulations. They will definately be successful.

Hello everyone,

I am just a parent of a teenager who I can say has been through tragedy and came out on top. We lost his dad when he was in 8th grade and in the 10th grade I had to have major back surgery that almost paralized me. This made my son lose interest in everything he was doing, except his art. His love of art made his realize that his dream of becoming an automotive designer could be accomplished, he was even admitted into the school of his choice. It wasn't until we found out that even with scholarships from the school and Perkins and Stafford loans that because his school is an art school he was still thousands of dollars short. I am not a rich person just a working lower middle class mom, but I'll do anything so that he can go to school. So I am taking out loans for his education, how I'm gonna pay it back I don't know, but since I know there is a God I know he will help me through this. I applaud this web site because it encourages you young people to not give up. Keep up the good work.

YOur stories are just amazing! This website has led me to some trully interesting people! I hope all the effort each one of us has put in what ever is it that we do will some day pay off! It is inspiring to hear that there are so many good people that want to make a difference!
I really feel fortunate for the life I have and I thank God every day because I live with my two parents who work very hard to give me what I need. I live in Colombia, a third world country as many will know. Many people prejudge Colombians because all the problems that we as a country must deal with. Fortunately I havent been directly affected by violence, but I do get to see the damage violence may cause to one´s life. My major goal right now is to do something for my country and those people who are not as fortunate as me!
Keep up the good effort ZINCH mates coz I know we can all work hard to achieve our dreams!!
P.S.... Hey Mick I agree with Christian, there should be like some forum or a place where we can all post our comments about college or other interesting things we want to share with our ZINCH mates! think about it ;) bye!