How to Write a Compelling Johnston Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your values and goals. Consider moments that influenced your decision to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics and outcomes to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain why further study at Tallahassee State College is essential for you, and how the Johnston Scholarship can help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your character. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and what motivates you.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Begin with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey or aspirations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate paragraphs to each of the four buckets, ensuring each section has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you have learned from your experiences and how this scholarship will empower you to make a meaningful impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on specific actions and outcomes. Avoid abstract language and generalizations. Each paragraph should present a single idea, leading logically to the next. Use clear and concise language to convey your thoughts effectively.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting your essay, take a step back and assess its impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What have you learned from your experiences? How will this scholarship help you achieve your goals? Ensure that your reflections are evident and that your essay communicates a commitment to your future.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid cliché openers and filler phrases that do not add value to your essay.
• Steer clear of vague statements about passion without supporting evidence.
• Do not use passive voice when you can employ active voice.
• Refrain from including invented facts or experiences; authenticity is crucial.