Carolyn Lesley Memorial Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Identify formative experiences that shaped your educational and personal journey. Consider significant moments, challenges, or influences that have contributed to your current path.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on quantifiable outcomes. Think about leadership roles, community service, academic successes, or projects that demonstrate your capabilities and commitment.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that further study at Tarleton State University can provide. Be specific about how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Use specific details to illustrate who you are beyond your achievements.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or shares a meaningful moment. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph has a specific focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to using your education for positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and a confident tone. Avoid clichés and general statements; instead, focus on specific experiences and reflections. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supported by concrete examples. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section—what does this experience mean for your future and the community around you?

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Look for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and that your reflections are meaningful. Ask yourself how each section demonstrates your fit for the scholarship and what impact you aim to achieve.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or vague statements about passion.
• Steer clear of passive voice—use active constructions to emphasize your role in achievements.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure that your essay stays focused and does not meander off-topic.