How to Write Your Essay for the Leonard and Susan Rogers Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your academic journey. Consider how these elements relate to your desire to attend Eastern Florida State College.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, whether academic, extracurricular, or community-related. Use metrics where possible—such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received—to showcase your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your experience that this scholarship could help address. Explain why further study at Eastern Florida State College is essential for your personal and professional growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and motivations. Specific stories can help the committee see you as a unique individual rather than just a set of statistics.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. A strong structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or experience that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section flows logically to the next, reinforcing your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future. Emphasize your commitment to making the most of this opportunity.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Use specific examples to illustrate your points, and avoid vague language. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, leading the reader through your narrative with clarity and purpose. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section—what does this experience mean for your future?

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each section answers the “So what?” question, reinforcing your connection to the scholarship and your future goals. Consider sharing your draft with a mentor or peer for feedback.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and overly broad statements. Each sentence should contribute something unique to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active constructions to make your writing more engaging.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Authenticity is key in making a genuine connection with the committee.