How to Write Your Essay for the Brevard Scholars Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To construct a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your formative experiences. Consider significant events, challenges, or influences that shaped your academic path. What motivated you to pursue higher education at Eastern Florida State College?
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments. Include specific metrics, such as GPA, awards, or leadership roles. Detail your responsibilities and the outcomes of your efforts. How have your achievements prepared you for success in your studies?
• The Gap: Identify any areas where you seek growth. What skills or knowledge do you hope to gain through your studies? Explain how this scholarship will bridge the gap between your current abilities and your academic or career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and unique perspective. What makes you stand out as an applicant?

Structuring Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Each section should serve a clear purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements and instead draw the reader into your narrative.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to structure your achievements and challenges. Clearly articulate the situation, your task, the actions you took, and the results.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations. Emphasize how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals and contribute to your community.

Drafting Voice and Tone

Write in an active voice, focusing on your experiences and insights. Use specific details and metrics to substantiate your claims. Avoid vague statements about passion or commitment; instead, demonstrate these qualities through concrete examples. Ensure your narrative flows logically, guiding the reader through your thought process.

Revision and Reflection

After drafting your essay, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does your essay clearly convey your journey and aspirations? Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism. Ensure your final draft is polished, clear, and free of clichés.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not rely on passive voice; ensure your writing is direct and engaging.
• Steer clear of vague claims without supporting evidence. Every assertion should be backed by specific examples or metrics.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.