How to Craft Your Asher Broughton Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring four key areas: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider what experiences have shaped your interest in education and community service. Think about pivotal moments in your life that led you to apply for this scholarship.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Include specific projects, leadership roles, or community initiatives where you made a tangible impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. Discuss what skills or knowledge you lack and how this scholarship will help you bridge those gaps in your educational journey.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've faced and how they've influenced your perspective.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that highlights the main points you want to cover. A clear structure will help you stay focused and ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose.

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements; instead, engage the reader with a vivid description.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Make sure to reflect on what you learned and how it shaped your goals.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to your educational and community goals. Reflect on how receiving this scholarship will empower you to make a greater impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and concrete language. Avoid vague phrases and clichés. Each sentence should contribute to your overall narrative. As you write, continuously ask yourself, “So what?” to ensure that your reflections add depth and insight.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating the significance of your experiences and aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or general statements. Begin with a specific moment or story.
• Don’t exaggerate or invent details about your experiences. Authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to convey your achievements and actions.
• Ensure every paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall argument.