Episode 340 — Video Scholarship Tips (with Monica Matthews)

Looking for video scholarship tips that actually work? In this episode of Homeschooling with Technology, scholarship expert Monica Matthews shares practical video scholarship tips for high school (and younger) students—how to hook judges fast, align your story with a sponsor’s mission, film with simple lighting and clear audio, avoid script-reading, and submit authentic, AI-proof entries that stand out in college scholarship competitions.

What this episode covers

• Why video scholarships are growing (hint: AI-proofing & faster judging)

• How video entries differ from written essays—but keep the same “heart”

• Practical strategies for camera-shy students

• A step-by-step prep checklist (gear, setup, delivery)

• Content tips that make judges lean in

• Common mistakes that quietly disqualify strong applicants

• Encouragement to start scholarship hunting before senior year

Key takeaways 1) Why more scholarships want video

• Organizations want the real student—voice, presence, personal stories—less vulnerable to ghost-writing/AI.

• Video lets judges scan more entries quickly and spot authentic connection to their mission.

2) Video vs. essay: same heart, new canvas

• Align to the sponsor’s mission just like a written essay—then show it.

• Use visuals/props/locations that reinforce fit (e.g., record in a barn for an FFA scholarship).

• Voice, pacing, and genuine enthusiasm communicate things text can’t.

3) For camera-shy students

• It’s a learned skill: practice short takes; use bullet points (not scripts).

• Relaxation cues help (hydrate, quick snack, breathe, light stretch, brief chat with a friend).

• Place a tiny sticker by the lens to remind you to look at the camera and smile.

• Consider a (free) voice-activated teleprompter sparingly—bullet points are still best.

4) Production & setup tips (simple wins)

• Lighting: face a window or use an inexpensive ring light. Avoid dim rooms/backlighting.

• Audio: test levels; earbuds often beat laptop mics.

• Framing/background: uncluttered, distraction-free; sit/stand tall.

• Silence interruptions: pets out, phone in another room, “recording” sign on the door, fans/alerts off.

• Format/time rules: follow file type/size limits; use the full allowed time without exceeding it.

5) Content tips that stand out

• Start with a hook—a vivid moment, a surprise, or a concise claim that tees up your story.

• Tell one focused story that demonstrates qualities the sponsor values; show growth/impact.

• Be specific: concrete details beat generalities.

• Use bullet points off-camera so delivery stays natural; do not read a script.

• Slow down, articulate, and let your enthusiasm show.

• Avoid filler: Don’t start with “Hi, my name is…” or restate your GPA/prompt—judges already have your application.

• Appear on camera (not just slides/B-roll)—authenticity matters.

6) Common pitfalls to avoid

• Over-polish/perfection that feels inorganic.

• Ignoring the sponsor’s mission statement.

• Submitting in the wrong orientation/format or going over time.

• Cluttered background, poor lighting, or rushed, monotone delivery.

Quick checklist Before you record

• ☐ Read the prompt & rules (time limit, file type, orientation).

• ☐ Review the sponsor’s mission; jot 3 bullets that connect you to it.

• ☐ Choose a clean, on-theme location and outfit (business-casual unless a purposeful costume supports the prompt).

• ☐ Set up lighting and test audio.

• ☐ Put phone on Do Not Disturb / out of sight; post a “Recording” sign.

Practice

• ☐ Draft a hook first sentence.

• ☐ Bullet the middle (story → evidence → impact).

• ☐ End with a memorable close + why this scholarship matters to your goals.

• ☐ Time a full run-through; aim to use the allotted time.

Record & review

• ☐ Maintain eye contact with the lens; smile naturally.

• ☐ Speak clearly and slower than you think.

• ☐ Verify format/size; filename is sensible (e.g., Lastname_Scholarship_Title.mp4).

Resources & links

Monica Matthews — How to Win Scholarships (How2WinScholarships.com)

• Website & blog with video-scholarship tips
• Blog post on video scholarships with tips and an extensive list of awards
• Facebook group for parents: Scholarship Help and College Talk for Parents
• Facebook page for everyone: How to Win College Scholarships
• Direct order link for the ebooks
• Scholarship tips and lists email sign up (FREE)

• Previous episodes with Monica:

  • Ep 274: Ethical AI use for Scholarship Success 

  • Ep 117: Tips for Completing Online Scholarship Applications 

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

Join our Facebook Group especially for the listeners of this podcast! You can ask questions and get advice as you try integrating technology in your homeschool.

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