How to Write Your Essay for the Johnny Johnson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that shaped your interest in commercial diving. Consider personal stories, family influences, or early encounters with the ocean or diving.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments relevant to the field. Include metrics such as certifications, training hours, or projects you’ve completed. Highlight responsibilities that demonstrate leadership or initiative.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge that further study will provide. Explain why the scholarship is essential for bridging this gap and advancing your career.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and motivations. Share anecdotes that illustrate your character and passion for diving.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that illustrates your connection to diving.
2. Background: Discuss your journey and experiences leading you to this point.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and what they mean for your future.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate your educational needs and how the scholarship will help you meet them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and the impact you hope to make in the diving community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about diving,” share a specific moment that ignited your interest. Ensure each paragraph focuses on a single idea, and use transitions to guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity and coherence in your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each section to ensure you’re conveying meaningful insights. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism and help refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Using generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Failing to demonstrate how your experiences align with the scholarship’s goals.
• Neglecting to proofread for grammatical errors or unclear phrasing.