Hi,
This is a kind of edited version of a web page that I found when I started out looking for help with fund raising a few years ago. I couldn't find the original web page, or the details of the girl who wrote it, but I hope that she doesn't mind me following it on.
This is designed to give a few tips to anyone who is thinking of training to be a veterinary surgeon, but is faced with raising the tuition fees. It is directed towards graduates, but with the situation of tuition fees increasing for first degree students, this may help anyone thinking of going to university.
After completing my first degree, I was offered a place to study veterinary medicines at Bristol University on the condition that I pay the full fee for the course. This amounts to over £70,000...not a number to be sniffed at! Anyhow, not to be defeated, I decided that I would give it my best to try and raise the money, after all, I thought that it was well worth the effort to have the chance to become a vet.
Back To The TopThis is a hot topic for the Government and the media at the moment, as student debt rises and more and more students are worried about the financial burden of going to university. The full cost fees that graduates have to pay were introduced a number of years ago, and have only increased since. This dissuades most potential students from studying their chosen course, as it is an added pressure to students having to support themselves and concentrate on their studies.
Whether you think this is fair or not, this is the situation you will be faced with if you decide to apply as a graduate to a UK university. Unless you are lucky enough to have lots of money (or generous relatives/a winner or the lottery!) most of you will have to raise the cost of the fees yourself. A loan from your bank can be sought, but you will need a guarantor. It is probably worth talking to your bank about the finances of your course, as they may be able to help you later on if you get into difficulties.
Do not panic, it can be done!!!
With such a huge task in front of you, it can be difficult to know where to begin, so I'll try to point you in the right direction to help you get started. Hopefully it will inspire you to try to raise your fees, and not miss your chance to become a vet.
I have an offer! How do I start raising money???
Firstly, well done on getting offered a place on the veterinary course. It isn't easy...so congratulations.
All of the UK Universities now charge full cost tuition fees to graduates. Normally, you will receive your offer for entry at the start of the next academic year. This doesn't give you much time (a few months), and it may be wiser to start your preparation, at least, sooner that this. However, your offer letter will be needed as proof entry on the course. I applied right at the end of my course, after receiving my degree results. The universities that I applied to were very flexible about the offer, and were willing to let me take a year out (defer entry) to raise the money. Talk to the university and explain what your situation is, and see if they can offer any help (see below).
Be prepared for lots of letter writing. This money will not just fall into your lap. You have to be committed from day 1. It is very important to organise your fundraising from the beginning, and keeping records and correspondence.
Determination and patience is the key. I suggest you invest in a computer, or at least have access to one. The usual response to such "begging letters" is that about 2% will be successful. Keep going - it will be worth it. You must be prepared for most of your letters to be rejected, or not even replied to. However, those that do secure some funding make up for all the failures. It is difficult, but I found that it was less daunting to take it in manageable stages, and raise one year's funds at a time. I began with the "ground work" and then gradually built up on what I had already (see below). I managed to secure most of the funds for my first year by the start of the course. Some of my sponsors are able to help me with each year of the course and some gave one-off donations (you will fund that most of the grants companies only consider your application for one year at a time). Either way, all of the preparation was done right at the beginning, and although I still have some to raise, most of the hard work has been done.
Secondly, use your initiative. Your letter must clearly set out your objectives, stating the reasons why you feel you need to write to the addressee. Emphasise your determination and dedication, and your willingness to attempt to support yourself throughout the very intensive and demanding 5 year course in the face of such huge financial pressure. Just remember that you will competing with many other individuals/groups, all requesting help for worthy causes and all hoping to be awarded some money. Think about who you wish to contact, and how to go about it. Remember your letter needs to stand out from all the rest, so it is well worth investing time in preparing it properly. It is important not to ask for help with funding straight away, but to thoroughly explain your situation etc. initially so that the addresses is able to build up a clear picture of you and your appeal. Make sure, however, that it is not too long and drawn out.you don't want the reader to become bored. Try not to waffle - if you stick to explaining your situation, you should write a good letter.
People who have sponsored me come from all walks of life, and have donated between £5 and £6000. I have been sponsored by businesses, individuals, charities and trusts. You will find most of your sponsors from the resources given, but you will need to use that extra bit of initiative to find sponsors outside of the guidelines, as these sources will receive fewer letters and you will have less "competition".
You will probably find that the hardest part is finding your first sponsor.
Once you have achieved this, then the others will be much more willing to commit to you, and you will find that it will become easier. Charities, especially, are keen to ensure that you are genuine and are serious about your intentions. You are fortunate in that many people will be impressed by your self motivation and determination, and in addition, consider Veterinary Medicine a worth while and commendable career. This will increase your chances of being sponsored.
Back To The TopRead the other parts to Clare Yeadon's information about how to go about fundraising.