How to Write a Winning Essay for the Building Legacies Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, cultural influences, and experiences that have shaped your academic and career aspirations.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, whether academic, extracurricular, or community-related. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in skills or resources and how further education at Tallahassee State College will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that convey your values, interests, and motivations. This could include anecdotes that reveal your character and commitment to your goals.

Creating an Outline

Your outline should have a clear structure that guides the reader through your narrative. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on one main idea. Conclude with a powerful closing that reiterates your commitment to making a difference and the role of the scholarship in your journey.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Avoid generic statements; instead, show the committee your unique perspective and experiences. Begin with a vivid moment or scene that captures your journey and draws the reader in.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that you reflect on how your experiences have shaped you and why they matter. This reflection will deepen your narrative and make your essay more impactful. Additionally, check for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not use passive voice; instead, focus on your actions and contributions.
• Refrain from fabricating details or overstating achievements. Authenticity is key.
• Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overall message and flows logically to the next.