So, you’ve made a start on your Aspire application, but something’s stopped you from finishing. We get it – writing about yourself isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve put together some tips to help you ace your application and reap the benefits of the Aspire program.
The Aspire Early Admissions Program can take a heap of stress out of getting into your dream uni degree. If your application is successful, you’ll receive an early conditional offer for your course, access to the exclusive Aspire ATAR, support for your final exams, scholarship opportunities and more.
To give yourself the best chance at a successful Aspire application, we want to know about all the amazing stuff you’ve been up to – whether it was this year or earlier. This is your time to talk yourself up.
1. Prepare your statements offline
As part of your application, you’ll need to write 200 words on your involvement in community engagement activities, and 200 words on the impact you’ve had. You can write them however you like – whether it’s in paragraphs or dot points.
It’s a good idea to prepare these statements in a Word document or similar, so you can review and proofread them before you submit your application.
You may want to run a draft past a friend or family member, for feedback. Once you’re happy with them, simply copy and paste into the relevant fields.
Example of a successful application: CFA volunteer
– I joined the Warragul Junior Fire Brigade, aged 12 (2012), and attended fortnightly training for four years before becoming a senior member (2016). I then completed my minimum skills national qualification, which qualified me as a firefighter. I have since completed my national qualifications in breathing apparatus operation, search and rescue, hazmat awareness, first aid and structural firefighting.
– Over the past 2 years, I have attended over 190 call outs, including house fires, bushfires, work place accidents, car accidents and hazardous material incidents, just to name a few. I also assist the brigade with community education, fundraising and public relation events.
– As well as being called out in my own time, unexpected and when required, I also participate in the weekly brigade training for 3+ hours to make sure I am the most prepared I can be to help others in an emergency situation.
– As well as being an active firefighter in Warragul, I also turnout with Inverloch and Erica Brigade when in the area.
2. Think about all the great things you’ve done – and be specific
For Aspire applicants, we consider all types of community engagement activities. This could include:
- Captain/prefect
- Student Representative Council (SRC)
- Duke of Ed
- Peer support, mentoring or tutoring
- Leadership in sport, cultural groups or performing arts
- Fundraisers
- Lifesaving Victoria
- Rotary Club
- Relay for Life
- Salvation Army
- Participation in a social justice group
- Homework clubs
- Contribution to one’s family
Make sure you include details about when you started and finished (if applicable) the activity, how often you did it, and what it involved. Give us specific examples and include supporting evidence if possible.
Another example of a successful application: Mercy Place Residential Aged Care
Since March 2017 (2 years and 3 months), I been volunteering at the Mercy Place Residential Aged care, Mordialloc (approximately 2 hrs/ week during the school term and holidays).My weekly task includes identifying the needs of the group or individuals and implementing activities that would keep the residents mentally and physically engaged. As a group I include activities like balloon tennis, bingo, reading a poetry, story or the newspaper. Individually I encourage them to regularly play puzzles such as spot the difference, crosswords, Sudoku to help keep them mentally active.
Arts and crafts was always a winner with the ladies, I also encourage the ladies with grooming, applying nail polish & make up which would boost their self-esteem. Taking them for walks and lending a listening ear to talk about their past experiences brings a smile to their face. During difficult times, our one on one chats have helped some to overcome the grief of a loved one. I have travelled with the residents on day trips to the City, The Shrine of Remembrance and Mornington Peninsula. Sometimes I play the flute or organised easy listening music sessions to relax them if they are too tired.
3. Think about the impact you’ve made
How did your participation in community engagement activities impact you, and how did it impact your community? Think about how people have responded to your service and what they’ve said to you.
Remember, the impacts don’t just need to be practical – think about the emotional and social impacts as well.
4. Stop comparing yourself to everyone else
Last but not least, it’s important to remember that your personal experiences are unique and valuable. It’s easy to compare our contributions to those of the people around us and minimise our own achievements.
Aspire is about your individual experiences and how you’ve given back to the community in your own unique way. Focus on that, and your application will be on the right track.
Remember, if you have any questions about the program or your eligibility, you can find out more on our Aspire page or via live chat. Good luck!
