SAMSUNG AMERICAN LEGION SCHOLARSHIP

APPLICATION PROCESS & BEST PRACTICES

OVERVIEW

Current application system Drawbacks and Feedback

Upcoming application system Objectives and Processes

Dos and Don’ts of Application Preparation and Submission Students & Judges

Samsung American Legion Scholars Local and National Recognition

Samsung American Legion Alumni Association Ongoing Engagement and Networking

APPLICATION SYSTEMS

Paper-based

More paper, More problems

Integrity of the application

Relevancy and Response issues

Risk management

Web-based

Streamlined and Consistent process

Controlled access and information

Risk mitigation

Cost reduction and modernization

ONLINE APPLICATION - STUDENT

1. Create online application by creating unique Legion.org account

2. Can save application and return for multiple sessions using personalized username / password

3. Capability to upload supporting documents

4. Counselor information submitted via download/upload process of required form

5. Cannot submit application until all materials are uploaded, required fields are completed, and school information has been submitted

6. Upon submission, student may NOT change any information. Can print a complete version of their full application upon submission.

7. Notification of the scholar’s status is up to the department, as they will NOT be automatically notified when the department submits their name as a national finalist

8. Notified by National Organization of exact scholarship status and responsibilities following Fall Meetings

9. Any incomplete applications will not be seen by the department and will be deleted upon close of the program’s deadline

ONLINE APPLICATION - DEPARTMENT

1. Receives current-year log-in credentials and department-specific code for BS/GS attendees

2. TAL only access to BS applicants / ALA only access to GS applicants

3. Will be able to view applications upon complete submission by applicant

4. Will be able to print same full version of the application as applicant

5. May require applicants to bring printed copy to BS/GS or may review completed apps online

6. Regardless, MUST enter scoring and certification through online scoring system

7. Certify ONE winner from each program prior to Aug. 1st

8. If desired, should download / copy / print all applications NLT Sept. 1st

9. Access codes, log-in information, and additional scholarship items emailed/mailed to Dept Adjutants/Secretaries NLT 1 February

ONLINE APPLICATION - NATIONAL

1. Full spectrum administrative access

2. Paperless

3. Provides guidance and technical support to applicants and departments

4. Closes student access to applications the day a department’s respective BS/GS program begins (11:59:59)

5. Closes department certification window on August 1st for national processing

6. During vetting process will inform the department of any needs for nominated applicant

7. Distribute all materials to national judges in preferred format

8. Communicates directly with applicants if any additional information is needed after formal vetting with department

9. Notify winners of all necessary information and arrange national recognition

10. Wipe system of un-nominated applications after national vetting / wipe system of remaining applications as of Fall Meetings

11. Work with departments to upgrade and improve online application system

BEST PRACTICES

DON’Ts

Accept illegible documents

Accept unacceptable documents

Advertise a certain amount for the lesser scholarship

Create rules for the scholarship not part of the national program

Pass around department username/password

Entrust only 1 person with scholarship accountability

Ask to add something to a submitted application

Simply accept the highest score as your nominee

BEST PRACTICES

DOs

Advertise the scholarship as a $20K opportunity

Encourage students to find acceptable veteran’s service proof EARLY

Apply as close to BS/GS as possible with a cushion

Ensure all staff knows deadlines

Committee selection / Ensure integrity of selection with national before announcing

Complete the online process for submission of department nominee

Ask questions of your national education staff

Score the applications online

ILLEGIBLE DOCUMENT EXAMPLES

UNACCEPTABLE DOCUMENT EXAMPLES

ACCEPTABLE DOCUMENT EXAMPLES

NATIONAL RECOGNITION

3 Days in Washington D.C.

Chances to meet Senators and Reps

Introduction to our nation’s capital

Deeper organizational learning and program attachment

SAMSUNG AMERICAN LEGION ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Network of high-achieving professionals

Legion leadership and continued engagement

Building of mentorship relationship

Program legacy

SUMMARY

Current paper-based system being replaced by an online-only system to mitigate risk and ensure accurate and up-to-date practices

Distinct, streamlined duties at each level (Applicant / Department / National)

National recognition model as a guide for local recognition

Upcoming SALAA to continue engagement / Promote future membership