Why an Average Student Struggles to Motivate Themselves for Scholarships

Asking an average student to get motivated for free education
is like asking a fish to ride a submarine. It’s not impossible, but there are underlying reasons that often make it a daunting task.

The Impact of Lineage and Upbringing on Motivation

The first thing to consider is the impact of lineage. It’s not just about being wealthy or poor; it’s about the values and beliefs passed down from generations. If a student comes from a family with a strong work ethic and educational priorities, chances are they would be more motivated to apply for scholarships. On the other hand, if the family background is one of less emphasis on formal education, it can be challenging for the student to see the value in it. Even if they are technically capable, the lack of role models or encouragement can make it difficult to stay motivated.

Secondly, the impact of upbringing should not be underestimated. A stable and nurturing environment is crucial for a student's motivation. If a student has grown up in an environment where there are constant changes, instability, or lack of support, it can be hard to focus on long-term goals like studying for scholarships. The fear of uncertainty and the constant need to adapt can sap their motivation.

Understanding the Underlying Reasons for Lack of Motivation

So, why might an average student struggle to find the motivation to pursue a scholarship? There could be a variety of reasons:

Lack of Belief in Oneself

Many average students might doubt their own abilities. They might believe that scholarships are reserved only for those who are naturally intelligent or come from privileged backgrounds. This self-doubt can create a barrier to applying for scholarships. If they are told that they need to be exceptional to win a scholarship, they might think that they are not good enough, even if they are capable.

No Clear Understanding of Benefits

Another common issue is a lack of clarity regarding what a scholarship actually means in terms of tangible benefits. An average student might know that getting a scholarship means free education, but they might not understand the broader benefits such as the prestige, networking opportunities, or the sense of achievement. Without a clear understanding of the value of the scholarship, they might not feel the motivation to apply.

Perception of Effort vs. Outcome

There can also be a skewed perception of the relationship between effort and outcome. Average students might feel that putting in extra effort for a scholarship does not guarantee success, leading them to question the worth of their efforts. The fear of failure can be a significant demotivator. If they feel that they are not likely to succeed regardless of their efforts, they might not be motivated to try.

Tips for Overcoming These Challenges

Fortunately, there are strategies that can help overcome these challenges:

Build Belief and Confidence

One of the most important steps is to build self-confidence. Encourage the student to focus on their strengths and achievements, not just their perceived weaknesses. Parents and educators can play a crucial role by providing support and affirming that they are capable of success, regardless of their present circumstances.

Clarify the Benefits

It’s essential to make the benefits of scholarships more tangible and relatable. Explain how scholarships can open doors to opportunities that they might not have otherwise, such as international exposure, academic support, and future job prospects. Use case studies or examples to illustrate how scholarships have positively impacted other students.

Address the Fear of Failure

Encourage the student to view failure as a learning opportunity rather than a measure of their worth. Teach them to set small, achievable goals along the way, so that they see progress and feel motivated to continue. This step by step approach can make the process less daunting and more manageable.

In conclusion, while it’s understandable to feel demotivated, especially with the challenges of lineage and upbringing, there are ways to overcome these obstacles. By building confidence, clarifying the value of scholarships, and addressing the fear of failure, students can tap into their potential and pursue their educational goals with renewed motivation.