How to Write Your Essay for the Jennifer H. Maurer Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring the following four buckets:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including significant experiences that shaped your educational journey. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your aspirations?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics and examples to illustrate your contributions and responsibilities.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge and how further study at Broward College will help you fill these gaps. Be honest and specific about your goals.
• Personality: Infuse your narrative with personal details that reveal your values, interests, and character. What makes you unique, and how do these traits align with the scholarship’s objectives?

Outline Your Essay

Creating a clear outline will help organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. Consider structuring your essay as follows:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets, ensuring each section connects back to the scholarship's goals.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about your field, demonstrate this through specific experiences and insights. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, supported by evidence.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and assess your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained, and why do they matter? Ensure that your reflections highlight your growth and the potential impact of your education.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements and superlatives. Instead, focus on concrete examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always identify the actor in your sentences.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.