How to Write Your Essay for the James Fennel Fine Arts Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your interest in the arts. Consider pivotal moments, mentors, or challenges that influenced your path.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments in your artistic journey. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your success, such as exhibitions, performances, or awards.
• The Gap: Discuss what you currently lack that further education at Johnson County Community College can provide. Be honest about your aspirations and the skills you wish to develop.
• Personality: Share unique aspects of your character that define you as an artist. This could include your values, work ethic, or specific artistic influences.

Creating an Outline

Draft a structured outline to organize your essay. Each section should have a clear focus, with one main idea per paragraph. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Open with a compelling scene or moment that captures your artistic journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they led you to pursue the arts.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments and what they signify about your dedication.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational needs and how the scholarship will bridge those gaps.
5. Personality: Conclude with insights into your character and your vision for the future.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and specific details to engage the reader. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, show your enthusiasm through concrete examples and reflections. Each paragraph should flow logically to the next, maintaining a coherent narrative throughout the essay.

Revision and Reflecting on “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections convey why your experiences matter and how they connect to your future goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your writing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish your achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in your accomplishments.
• Ensure each paragraph has a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.