Calling all plumbers, carpenters, electricians, welders, auto-technicians, and anyone getting trained for skilled jobs that are in demand!For the fifth year in a row, the Work Ethic Scholarship Program will give away a free pile of money to those who demonstrate strong work ethic and a thirst for skilled training.
The program launches on Monday, April 2, 2018, and the deadline to submit applications is Monday, June 4, 2018.
If you think you’ve got what it takes, there are some hoops to jump through. Here are a few of them that set us apart from other programs:
- The S.W.E.A.T. Pledge must be signed by ALL applicants. S.W.E.A.T stands for, “Skill & Work Ethic Aren’t Taboo.” Basically, you’re signing a solemn oath not to become a lazy, self-entitled drone who blames others for their troubles and expects to be taken care of. Fair warning: this Pledge is not for everyone; so if you’re offended or threatened by its content, it’s probably best to seek out a different pile of free money.
- We’ll need to see at least two solid references. No, Mom doesn’t count; we know she loves you. We only accept references from a boss, superior, teacher, or someone you have reported to who will gush about you in a way that will knock our socks off. But we’ll accept more than two references; if more than two people want to sing your praises, send them on.
- You’ll need to write an essay and answer a few short questions. Your essay is a chance to make the case for why YOU should get some of the free money. Tell us about yourself. Why are you drawn to the skilled trades? Why do you deserve to receive an award? Let us know any accomplishments or anything you do that shows that you believe in the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge. For example, do you volunteer, or were you an Eagle Scout? Do you put in extra hours helping other students or mentoring kids? What else do you do that sets you apart from all the other applicants? Make your case, and be persuasive.
- While we don’t require attendance records, if you can get them, we’d love to see them. Showing up counts.
- You’ll need to make a video of yourself. Consider it the audiovisual version of your essay. We’re not talking about a Spielberg feature film here – just a short iPhone video where you make a case for yourself. There are rules on submitting a video so be sure to read those carefully and comply, or the video may not be considered.
Bottom line – Work Ethic Scholarships are for people who are hungry to learn a skill that’s in demand—it’s for the people who wake up early, stay late, and bust their ass day in and day out. Naturally, people like this are hard to find, but they’re out there.
“THE S.W.E.A.T. PLEDGE”
(Skill & Work Ethic Aren’t Taboo)
1. I believe that I have won the greatest lottery of all time. I am alive. I walk the Earth. I live in America. Above all things, I am grateful.
2. I believe that I am entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Nothing more. I also understand that “happiness” and the “pursuit of happiness” are not the same thing.
3. I believe there is no such thing as a “bad job.” I believe that all jobs are opportunities, and it’s up to me to make the best of them.
4. I do not “follow my passion.” I bring it with me. I believe that any job can be done with passion and enthusiasm.
5. I deplore debt, and do all I can to avoid it. I would rather live in a tent and eat beans than borrow money to pay for a lifestyle I can’t afford.
6. I believe that my safety is my responsibility. I understand that being in “compliance” does not necessarily mean I’m out of danger.
7. I believe the best way to distinguish myself at work is to show up early, stay late, and cheerfully volunteer for every crappy task there is.
8. I believe the most annoying sounds in the world are whining and complaining. I will never make them. If I am unhappy in my work, I will either find a new job, or find a way to be happy.
9. I believe that my education is my responsibility, and absolutely critical to my success. I am resolved to learn as much as I can from whatever source is available to me. I will never stop learning, and understand that library cards are free.
10. I believe that I am a product of my choices – not my circumstances. I will never blame anyone for my shortcomings or the challenges I face. And I will never accept the credit for something I didn’t do.
11. I understand the world is not fair, and I’m OK with that. I do not resent the success of others.
12. I believe that all people are created equal. I also believe that all people make choices. Some choose to be lazy. Some choose to sleep in. I choose to work my butt off.
On my honor, I hereby affirm the above statements to be an accurate summation of my personal worldview. I promise to live by them.
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