How to Write Your Essay for the Lexington Chamber Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including family, cultural influences, and significant life events that have shaped your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify your accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Include academic achievements, leadership roles, or community service that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey and how further studies at Midlands Technical College will help you bridge this gap. Be specific about your goals and aspirations.
• Personality: Think about your unique qualities and values. Use specific anecdotes to illustrate your character and how these traits will contribute to your success in college and beyond.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Structure your essay to flow logically from one idea to the next:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey or aspirations. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section answers the “So what?” question, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and how they relate to the scholarship.
3. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reaffirm your commitment to your educational goals and community impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Be specific and avoid vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about helping others, describe a specific instance where you made a difference. This will create a stronger connection with the reader.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating how your experiences and aspirations align with the scholarship’s goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; ensure your writing is direct and engaging.
• Do not fabricate experiences or embellish achievements; authenticity is key.
• Ensure your essay is well-organized and free of grammatical errors.