How to Craft Your Essay for the Bank of America Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from these four areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including formative experiences that have shaped your educational and career aspirations. Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant challenges you've overcome.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, focusing on quantifiable metrics and responsibilities. Highlight leadership roles, community service, or academic successes that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify any academic or professional gaps in your experience. Explain how this scholarship will help you bridge those gaps and advance your goals, particularly in relation to your studies at Eastern Florida State College.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, passions, and motivations. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Outlining Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section should focus on one main idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements; instead, draw the reader in with a specific experience.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and challenges, ensuring each section reflects on what you learned and how it shaped your aspirations.
3. Conclusion: Reiterate your commitment to your goals and how the scholarship will facilitate your journey. Reflect on the broader impact you hope to achieve in your community or field.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your actions and contributions. Use specific examples and details to support your claims. Avoid vague language and clichés; instead, aim for clarity and authenticity. Each paragraph should flow logically to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and impact. Ask yourself: What have I learned? Why does this matter? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, emphasizing your growth and future aspirations.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Steer clear of common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that fail to engage the reader.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from using passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Ensure every paragraph has a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.