Edward Seese Memorial Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Consider what experiences have shaped your educational journey. Reflect on your upbringing, challenges faced, and influences that have motivated you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Focus on specific metrics, responsibilities, and outcomes, such as projects completed, leadership roles held, or community service initiatives led.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your education or experience that this scholarship could help bridge. Be honest about what you lack and how further study at Broward College will enable you to overcome these challenges.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Share anecdotes that highlight your resilience, creativity, or commitment to making a difference.

Outline Your Essay Structure

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey or aspirations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically into the next. Use the STAR method to illustrate achievements and challenges.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to your educational and career goals.

Drafting with Purpose

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supported by specific examples and details. Avoid clichés and ensure your writing reflects your unique perspective and experiences.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review it critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections demonstrate growth and insight, explaining why your experiences matter and how they relate to your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements or generalities. Be specific about your experiences and achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to create a more engaging narrative.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish your accomplishments. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.