How to Write Your Essay for the Forrest J. Flammang Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, cultural background, or pivotal moments.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Quantify your successes with numbers or specific outcomes, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Identify what you still need to achieve your goals. What skills or knowledge do you lack, and how will this scholarship help you bridge that gap?
• Personality: Think about the unique aspects of your character. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your personality and commitment to your goals.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay around a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in, perhaps through a specific moment or experience. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to your educational and career aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, demonstrate this passion through concrete examples and outcomes. Remember to maintain a tone that is confident yet reflective, showing growth and a desire to impact your community positively.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each section. What does this reveal about you? How does it connect to your goals and the scholarship’s purpose? Ensure that every paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative that answers these questions.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your essay’s impact:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements. Open with a specific moment that captures your reader’s attention.
• Steer clear of vague language and superlatives. Instead, focus on tangible achievements and experiences.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.