How to Write Your Essay for the Dr. G.B. Tamburello Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family, culture, and formative experiences that have shaped your educational journey.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, such as academic honors, leadership roles, or community involvement. Use metrics and specific examples to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current educational experience and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Discuss your academic and career aspirations and how further study at Pensacola State College fits into that vision.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that reflect your values, interests, and motivations. This could include hobbies, volunteer work, or unique experiences that showcase who you are beyond academics.

Outline Your Essay

Create a clear outline based on the materials gathered in the previous section. Organize your essay into a logical flow, typically starting with your background, followed by achievements, the gap, and concluding with your personality. Each section should transition smoothly to the next, ensuring a cohesive narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Start with a compelling opening that draws the committee in—consider beginning with a specific moment or experience that highlights your journey. Avoid clichés and generic statements; instead, focus on unique insights and reflections that answer the “So what?” question throughout your essay.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. When you return, read through your essay with fresh eyes. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative. Look for opportunities to deepen your reflections and clarify your motivations. Ask yourself if each section answers the “So what?” question, emphasizing the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls during the writing process:

• Avoid starting with clichés or vague statements about passion.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to specific subjects.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure your essay is well-structured, with one main idea per paragraph and clear transitions.