How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Barfield Family Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including significant experiences that shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Quantify your successes where possible—mention specific projects, leadership roles, or awards that demonstrate your capabilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey. This could be specific skills, knowledge, or experiences that further study at Pensacola State College will help you acquire.
• Personality: Humanize your essay by sharing personal anecdotes and values. What motivates you? What are your passions? This will help the committee connect with you on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section of your essay should focus on one of the four material buckets. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in with a specific moment or story. Follow this with sections that delve into your background, achievements, and the gap, concluding with your personality insights. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and achievements. Avoid clichés and strive for specificity. Instead of stating your passion for a subject, illustrate it with concrete examples. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, contributing to the overall narrative of your essay.

Reflection and “So What?”

As you revise, ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Reflect on how your experiences have changed you and why these changes matter. This reflection will not only enhance your essay's depth but also demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact through your education.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays:

• Do not use vague language or empty superlatives; be specific about your achievements.
• Avoid passive voice; ensure your writing is active and engaging.
• Steer clear of generic openers and clichés; start with a unique moment or insight.
• Never invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is crucial.