One week from today, you’re done. No more wordsmithing, budget adjusting or second-guessing. (Well, maybe the second-guessing sticks around until the grant announcement on April 5...) So use the next six days wisely. FFT Fellow Lisa Marien suggests getting feedback from at least four readers and, since it worked for her, we share her tips:
One friend read my proposal who is an editor and homeschooling parent. She critiqued grammar and raised several other content questions I hadn't noticed.
Two friends who are married read it. They tossed around their thoughts with each other before sharing their feedback with me.
Finally, my principal read it, giving it the final once-over for educational soundness.
Check out this video to see Lisa's fellowship in action.
A few more FAQ’s we often receive during the last week of submissions:
Will my proposal be favorably considered if I low-ball my budget?
Readers look at the merits of your entire proposal, not just the costs of your fellowship. We know that prices change as summer approaches, so use research to your advantage. Pick a median figure between the highest and lowest fares you can find. Name the sites where you found your price quotes.
What should I include in my budget?
Readers will look closely to see if you have sufficient resources to execute and implement your fellowship.
Don’t forget the costs of obtaining passports, visas or immunizations.
Have you included the costs of materials you will need to implement your learning back in your classroom?
If you will need special equipment, be sure to include if you will be using your own or school equipment, or whether you intend to purchase equipment that will then be accessible to your school.
Last tip: If possible, plan to submit your proposal a couple of days before the January 31 deadline. Then, if you need technical assistance, you can call us (1.800.681.2667) and not rely on one of the tech-savvy students in your classroom who is busy posting on Instagram.