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How to Write Your Essay for the College of Arts and Sciences Award

By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer

Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 25, 2026

ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.

How to write a scholarship essay for How to Write Your Essay for the College of Arts and Sciences Award — illustrative candid photo of students in a modern university or study environment

Understanding the Prompt

The College of Arts and Sciences Study Abroad Award aims to support students at Florida State University in their educational pursuits abroad. Your essay should clearly articulate how the scholarship will enhance your academic journey and future goals. Consider what specific experiences you hope to gain and how they align with your studies.

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

  • Background: Reflect on your personal history, including cultural influences, educational experiences, and any pivotal moments that have shaped your desire to study abroad.
  • Achievements: List significant accomplishments, such as academic honors, leadership roles, or community service. Quantify these where possible (e.g., “Led a team of 10 in a community project that raised $5,000”).
  • The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education that this scholarship would help you address. Be specific about how further study abroad will fill this gap.
  • Personality: Include humanizing details that showcase your values and character. Think about anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, curiosity, or commitment to making an impact.

Outlining Your Essay

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Structure your essay to ensure clarity and focus. A suggested outline includes:

  1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that captures your motivation for studying abroad.
  2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to describe specific situations, tasks, actions, and results related to your achievements and experiences.
  3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals and contribute to your field or community.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice to engage the reader. Avoid clichés and vague expressions; instead, focus on concrete examples and insights. Ensure that each paragraph has a clear main idea and flows logically to the next, guiding the reader through your narrative.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section—what does this reveal about you and your goals? Ensure that your reflections are clear and demonstrate personal growth and future aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be wary of the following mistakes:

  • Generic Openings: Avoid starting with broad statements or clichés. Instead, ground your essay in a specific moment.
  • Lack of Specificity: Use specific examples and metrics to illustrate your achievements and aspirations.
  • Passive Voice: Use an active voice to present your experiences and actions effectively.

Sources

FAQ

What is the deadline for the College of Arts and Sciences Study Abroad Award?
The application deadline for the College of Arts and Sciences Study Abroad Award is June 18, 2026. Ensure that you submit your essay and any required materials by this date.
How much is the scholarship worth?
The College of Arts and Sciences Study Abroad Award offers $4,000 to help cover education costs for students attending Florida State University.
What should I focus on in my essay?
Your essay should focus on your motivations for studying abroad, how the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and career goals, and your unique experiences and achievements that qualify you for this award.

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