College of Arts and Sciences
Scholarships
Tips for Writing a Thank You Note
Alumni and donors provide the funding and inspiration for many College of Arts and Sciences scholarships. Sending a thank-you letter is a welcome gesture of appreciation and may be required for funds to be disbursed.
After you have been awarded a scholarship, you’ll be given details on how to address your letter. Contact your departmental scholarship coordinator if you have questions.
What to Say
Tell the donor about yourself
- High school and/or other experiences that led you to your choice to study at Washington State University
- Your hometown
- General family background
Tell the donor about your present situation
- Class year and (intended) major at WSU
- Things you enjoy about and/or look forward to at college
- Organizations/extracurricular activities in which you participate
- Internships or research opportunities that you are doing or plan to do
- Awards you have received
Tell the donor about your future plans
- What you hope to accomplish while at WSU
- Future career aspirations
Important points to incorporate
- Tell how much the scholarship has helped/will help you (i.e., what it means to you personally)
- Use the full name of the scholarship, but refrain from using the amount of the scholarship
- Do not date your letter, but indicate the academic year you will receive the scholarship
- Use phrases such as “thank you,” “I appreciate,” and “I am grateful”
Format considerations
- Type your letter for readability
- Print your letter on bond paper or stationery
- In your salutation, begin with the appropriate title (i.e., Dear Dr., Mr., Mrs., Ms.)
- Be clear and concise; one page is sufficient
- Double- and triple-check spelling and grammar
- Be sure to sign your name