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John Harriet Sterling Teachers Scholarship Essay Guide
By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer
Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 24, 2026 · Updated Apr 26, 2026
ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.
Understanding the Prompt
Before you begin writing, take a moment to thoroughly understand the scholarship prompt. The John & Harriet Sterling Teachers Scholarship is designed to support students at Southwestern Illinois College. Consider what the scholarship committee is looking for in a candidate. They want to see your commitment to education and how you plan to use your studies to make a difference in your community.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
Organize your thoughts using the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.
- Background: Reflect on experiences that shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, key mentors, or significant events that sparked your interest in teaching.
- Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use metrics where possible, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours, to quantify your contributions.
- The Gap: Address what you currently lack in your education and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and the skills you wish to develop.
- Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you’ve overcome or moments that defined your commitment to education.
Creating an Outline
Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your essay. A strong structure might include:
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- Introduction: Start with a compelling in-scene moment that captures your passion for education.
- Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically to the next. Include specific examples and reflections on what you learned from each experience.
- Conclusion: Reflect on how receiving this scholarship will impact your future and your commitment to making a difference in education.
Drafting Voice and Style
As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific details and avoid vague statements. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, making it easy for the reader to follow your argument. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and aspirations.
Revision and “So What?”
After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity and coherence. Ensure that each section ties back to your main message about your commitment to education. Ask yourself if your essay effectively communicates why you deserve this scholarship and what you plan to achieve with it.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of the following mistakes:
- Avoid clichés and generic statements. Start with a unique moment or story that reflects your journey.
- Do not use passive voice. Instead of saying, “It was decided,” say, “I decided.”
- Ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable. Do not invent experiences or achievements.
FAQ
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