How to Write Your Essay for the Lt. Patrick G. McDonald Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider experiences that have shaped your educational journey. What personal or community challenges have you faced? How have these experiences influenced your decision to pursue higher education at Broward College?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments. Include academic successes, leadership roles, or community service. Quantify your results where possible, such as GPA, projects completed, or hours volunteered.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current skill set or education. Explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap and enable you to reach your goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and character. What unique perspectives do you bring to the table?

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline for your essay. A suggested structure includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or story that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section flows logically into the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Avoid clichés and vague expressions; instead, be specific about your experiences and aspirations. Use concrete details to illustrate your points, answering the “So what?” question in each section to highlight your growth and future impact.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself how each section answers the “So what?” question—what does your story mean for your future and the community?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; keep your writing vibrant and direct.