How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Linda Evans Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider how these elements connect to your aspirations at the University of West Florida.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Highlight leadership roles, academic successes, or community involvement that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current knowledge or experience and how further study at the University of West Florida will help you bridge this gap. Be specific about your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with humanizing details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, commitment, or creativity.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they relate to your goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments, using specific examples.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to learn and how it will impact your future.
5. Personality: Share personal insights that reflect your values and motivations.
6. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to your goals and the value of the scholarship in achieving them.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Avoid bureaucratic language and instead focus on clarity and specificity. Each paragraph should reflect your unique voice while maintaining a professional tone. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Look for opportunities to enhance clarity and impact. Ensure each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and answers the essential questions about your journey, goals, and the scholarship's relevance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and vague statements. Avoid phrases like “From a young age” or “I have always been passionate about.” Instead, focus on specific moments and experiences that illustrate your points. Additionally, steer clear of passive voice and ensure all claims are backed by evidence or specific examples.