How to Craft Your Essay for the Embry-Riddle Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on experiences that shaped your interest in aviation or aerospace. Consider family influences, education, or significant events that led you to Embry-Riddle.
• Achievements: List accomplishments related to your academic and extracurricular activities. Include specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or projects that showcase your capabilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be clear about your goals and the skills or knowledge you wish to gain.
• Personality: Think about personal qualities that make you a strong candidate. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, work ethic, and commitment to your chosen field.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling anecdote or moment that reflects your passion for aviation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and supports your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reiterate how the scholarship will impact your future and your commitment to contributing to the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be active and engaging. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. For instance, instead of saying, "I am passionate about aviation," describe a moment when you experienced that passion, such as a flight you took or a project you worked on. Show your growth and reflections throughout your essay.

Revision and the "So What?" Factor

After drafting, review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. This reflection will help you ensure that each section contributes meaningfully to your overall argument. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, and the strength of your examples.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and overused phrases. Instead, strive for originality in your expressions.
• Do not use passive voice when you can write actively. For example, say, "I led a team project" instead of "A team project was led by me."
• Ensure all facts are accurate and relevant to your experiences. Do not invent details or exaggerate achievements.