Arabian Horse Association Region Youth Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your experiences with Arabian horses, including how you became involved in the community and what personal values you have developed through this engagement.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments related to horses or community service. Include any metrics or specific outcomes, such as awards won, events organized, or leadership roles held.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek further education or experience. Explain why these gaps exist and how the scholarship will enable you to address them.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that showcase your character, values, and passion for the Arabian horse community. This could include challenges faced and how they shaped your journey.

Outline Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear structure. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or story that illustrates your connection to Arabian horses.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to the Arabian horse community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and use specific details. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always loved horses,” describe a particular event that illustrates your passion. Ensure that every section answers the question, “So what?” to highlight the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay critically, looking for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ask yourself if each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and if it answers the key questions about your background, achievements, gaps, and personality. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors and be open to constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Clichés: Avoid overused phrases that dilute your message.
• Vague Statements: Provide concrete examples and metrics to support your claims.
• Passive Voice: Use active voice to create a more engaging narrative.
• Invented Facts: Stick to verifiable experiences and achievements, ensuring authenticity in your essay.