Dart Scholarship application deadline approaching

(CMR) Students interested in applying for the 2022 Dart scholarship are being urged to do so now as the application deadline is fast approaching.

Rooted in academic excellence and with a focus on the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, the 2022 Dart scholarships are now open for applications.

Caymanian students aged 17-25 with an offer (or conditional offer) from an accredited institution can apply for the William A. Dart Memorial University Scholarship. Deadline for submission is 19 May 2022.

Over the past decade, Dart has awarded scholarships to 26 university undergraduates and 20 high school students in a program designed to support and mentor bright, young Caymanians through school and into the workplace.

Dart Scholars, have done exceptionally well over the years, with 85% of university graduates moving on to do masters or doctorate programs. Six alumni are already in the workplace, two at Dart and four gaining experience overseas.

These scholars are contributing to Cayman through their wealth of knowledge and skills.

Dart scholarship extends beyond financial support, as scholars receive regular mentoring, hands-on work experience at Dart,, and annual enrichment trips.

“Even the process of applying gives students good experience and increases their confidence for future interviews and job applications,” said Glenda McTaggart, Dart's senior manager of education programs. She administers the selection process and provides ongoing support and mentoring to scholars.

“We also invite Dart Scholar alumni to participate in the interview round, as it gives them interview experience from the other side and helps put candidates at ease,” McTaggart added.

Aiden Watler, the 2021 scholarship recipient, said the interviewers were “really supportive.”

“They just wanted you to show your enthusiasm for education in your chosen field and what makes you unique,” he explained

Applicants should submit their resume and a free-form essay outlining their education and career goals. The candidates are scored on their grades, extracurricular activities, and essay, with extra weight given to mathematics and science grades.

Top applicants are invited to take a STEM-based test before moving to the interview stage. A shortlist of five candidates is then put forward to the final selection committee for an independent review by Dart executives and business leaders from the community.

Results are then pooled to award scholarships to two high school students and one university student each year.
To ensure fairness and eliminate the risk of bias, applicant names are kept anonymous throughout the process.

Full details on how to apply can be found at dartscholar.ky.