How to Write Your Essay for the Lyle S. Salisbury Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family, education, and formative experiences. What challenges have shaped your journey?
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Consider academic honors, leadership roles, and community service. Use specific metrics to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship can help address. Be honest about your aspirations and how further study at Broward College will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that reveal your values and motivations. What drives you? What unique perspectives do you bring to the scholarship committee?

Outline Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A suggested outline includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically into the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact in your community or field of study.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your draft, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” illustrate your passion through a specific experience that demonstrates your commitment. Remember to keep the reader engaged by maintaining a clear and confident tone throughout.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revise your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does your essay reflect meaningful growth or insight? Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and supports your application for the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Do not invent experiences or facts; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure your essay is free of grammatical errors and flows logically.