How to Craft Your Essay for the Alfred P. West Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped who you are today. Consider pivotal moments that have guided your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics and outcomes to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects, or community service.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in terms of skills or opportunities and explain why further study at Stetson University is essential for your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and what makes you unique. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging opening that sets the scene or presents a defining moment in your life. Follow with paragraphs that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each section transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to your education and future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and ensure each sentence serves a purpose. Use specific examples and details that provide evidence of your achievements and aspirations. Reflect on your experiences and articulate what you learned from them, answering the “So what?” question in each section.

Revision and Reflection

After completing your draft, set it aside for a day or two before revising. Read through your essay with fresh eyes, checking for coherence, clarity, and engagement. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reinforces your suitability for the scholarship. Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers to gain additional perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid vague statements and generalizations; be specific in your claims.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; keep your writing direct and personal.
• Do not invent facts or embellish achievements; authenticity is key.
• Refrain from using clichés or overused phrases that detract from your unique voice.