How to Craft Your Essay for the Emma & Evelyn Garrett Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to develop a well-rounded essay:

• Background: What experiences have shaped you? Consider personal, academic, and community influences that have contributed to your journey.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments, including academic performance, leadership roles, and community service. Use metrics and tangible outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your experience or education that further study at Tarleton State University will help you address. Explain how this scholarship will facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and aspirations. Specific details will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating an Outline

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

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that draws the reader in. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future goals. Emphasize how the scholarship will help you achieve these goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, using specific examples and details. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead of stating your passion, demonstrate it through your experiences and achievements. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, supporting your narrative and maintaining the reader's interest.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself: What have I learned, and why does it matter? Each section should reflect personal growth and insights. Ensure your essay answers the question of “So what?” by connecting your experiences to your future goals and the impact of the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Using passive voice or bureaucratic language.
• Neglecting to provide specific examples and metrics.
• Failing to connect personal experiences to future aspirations.

By avoiding these pitfalls and focusing on clarity, specificity, and reflection, you can create a compelling essay that resonates with the scholarship committee.