How to Craft Your Essay for the Antonio and Bentina Terry Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a comprehensive essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions. Consider significant moments that influenced your decision to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: List your relevant accomplishments, including academic successes, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or leadership roles. Quantify your achievements where possible—mention specific awards, projects, or responsibilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and why further study at the University of West Florida is essential for your growth. Be honest about your challenges and articulate how this scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. Use specific details to illustrate your unique perspective and how it informs your goals.

Outlining Your Essay

With your material gathered, create an outline that organizes your thoughts logically. Start with a compelling introduction that draws the reader in, perhaps with an anecdote or a vivid description of a pivotal moment in your life. Follow this with sections that explore each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a reflection on how the scholarship will impact your future and your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and a confident tone. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific experiences and the insights you gained from them. Each paragraph should convey a single idea and flow logically to the next. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section—what changed in you, and why does it matter?

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising your essay. Read it with fresh eyes and assess whether each section contributes to your overall message. Ensure that your reflections are clear and demonstrate your growth. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, and the emotional impact of your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

When writing your scholarship essay, be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés; instead, lead with a specific moment that illustrates your journey.
• Steer clear of vague language; use precise details and metrics to support your claims.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key to building trust with the committee.
• Ensure your essay adheres to any specified word limits or formatting guidelines.