How to Craft Your Essay for the City of New Iberia Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider what experiences, values, or challenges have shaped your educational journey. Reflect on moments that have influenced your decision to pursue further education.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge that further study will help you address. Explain why attending South Louisiana Community College is the right step for you.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your character, values, and motivations. This is your chance to present yourself as a well-rounded individual.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered material, outline your essay. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in, perhaps with a specific moment or a vivid scene. Then, organize your thoughts logically, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Aim for one main idea per paragraph, supporting it with evidence from your material buckets.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, be specific about your experiences and insights. Each section should reflect your journey and growth, answering the “So what?” question—what has changed in you and why does it matter?

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity and coherence. Ensure that your reflections are deep and meaningful. Consider whether each paragraph contributes to a cohesive narrative that showcases your readiness for this scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes: avoid using filler phrases, such as “From a young age,” and ensure you do not invent facts or experiences. Stay away from passive voice and bureaucratic language; instead, keep your writing personal and engaging. Lastly, remember to proofread for grammar and spelling errors to present a polished final product.