Here you will find many frequently asked questions about the Merle Evanchyk Epilepsy Scholarship. Please review this page before submitting your questions.
1. How do I apply for a scholarship?
Answer: You can find our application and program information at:
Write:
Central Florida Epilepsy Scholarship Foundation, Inc.
109 North Kirkman Road
Orlando, Florida 32811
Call: 407-422-1416 or toll-free 1-866-864-1416
2. Where do I send my completed application?
Answer: You can mail your completed application and requested materials to:
Central Florida Epilepsy Scholarship Foundation
109 North Kirkman Road
Orlando, Florida 32811
3. If I provide an “artistic” presentation is an essay still required?
Answer: Yes. AN “artistic” presentation such as a CD, PowerPoint presentation, sketches, writing samples, short stories, scrapbooks, etc. are optional and may be included if you wish. If you do include an “artistic” presentation they cannot be returned.
4. I have been out of high school or college for a while. Do I still need to have a teacher/professor write a letter of recommendation? Do I still need a transcript?
Answer: If you have been out of school for a long time you may use a letter of recommendation from a co-worker, manager, community member, etc. If you can obtain a transcript from your former educational institution we would appreciate it.
5. Can you define the following for me for my letters of recommendation; School Official, Community Member, Healthcare Team Member?
Answer:
a. A School Official is any employee of a school where you are now/where enrolled that may include, but not limited to, teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, special in-school group leaders, principal, or professor.
b. A Community Member is someone whom you know well, such as a non-school athletic coach, member of the clergy, or leaders of a special interest groups such as the Boy Scouts, Rotary Club or
a Charity.
c. A Member of your Healthcare Team includes a physician, nurse practitioner, or other certified medical professional who is/was directly involved in your epilepsy care.
6. If I am currently in college or a post vocational school do I need to still send my high school transcript?
Answer: If you are currently in college or enrolled in a vocational school please provide your current transcript from that institution. You may also want to supplement your application with your high school transcript if you would like.
7. I am currently working and going to school part-time. Am I still eligible to apply?
Answer: Yes, as long as you are working toward a degree or certificate in an institute of higher learning.
8. When and how will I be notified about a scholarship award?
Answer: Our judges meet three times a year to review application packages received. All applicants will receive a letter acknowledging we have received your application and the date of our next review meeting. Awards are granted for the fall, spring and summer. Applications to be considered must be submitted by:
• Fall applications must be received by July 15th
• Spring applications by November 15th
• Summer applications by March 15th.
You will be notified immediately after that meeting. If your contact information changes after you submit your application please be sure to update it with us i.e., address, phone, mobile phone, email, etc.
9. What is considered a diagnosis of epilepsy?
Answer: The applicant must have received a documented diagnosis of having epilepsy. This doesn’t mean he/she must have uncontrolled seizures. An applicant’s seizures can be controlled. Diagnosis must be confirmed by the attending physician’s letter.
10. What if I used to have seizures/epilepsy and they are now under control can I apply?
Answer: All persons that have had a diagnosis of epilepsy are eligible for consideration.
11. What can the scholarship be used for?
Answer: A scholarship can be used for tuition, books, fees, and supplies.
12. I applied before. Can I apply again?
Answer: Yes, a previous applicant may apply again but must submit an updated application and updated transcript.
13. I am a high school senior and I do not know where I am attending college/vocational school yet. Can I still apply?
Answer: Yes, just provide a list of schools you have applied to in order of your preference and write “to be determined” on your application.
14. Is there a minimum GPA required to apply?
Answer: No, no minimum GPA is required to apply. Scholarships are awarded based on a number of criteria, such as community involvement, participation in increasing awareness of epilepsy in your community and how the applicant has positively dealt with epilepsy as part of their life.
15. What if 100% of my scholarship is not used during the current term it was given for?
Answer: In most cases funds will be distributed through the school. The Foundation will ask that if 100% is not disbursed that the funds may be carried over to the next term for the same purposes and not disbursed to the student as cash. If it is the final term for the student, terms and conditions will be spelled out in our agreement with you.
16. What should be included in my essay?
Answer: We would like for you to express in your own words what the unique qualities you have, how has epilepsy affected your life, how you have positively dealt with your epilepsy, if you have participated in activities to educate others about epilepsy, what are your future goals and endeavors and how would this scholarship help you. Feel free to express yourself. Our goal is to get to know you better and see part of your personality.
