How to Write an Essay for the Owen Wingate Memorial Music Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your musical journey. What experiences shaped your passion for music? Consider specific moments or influences that have guided you.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments in music. Include metrics such as performances, awards, or leadership roles in music-related activities. Quantify your successes where possible.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current skills or knowledge and explain how further study at Florida Gateway College will help you bridge this gap.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reflect your values and character. What motivates you? How do you approach challenges?

Creating an Outline

Draft a clear outline that organizes your ideas logically. Each section should focus on one of the four buckets. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in by showcasing a specific moment in your musical journey. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each bucket, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your essay, adopt an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about music, illustrate that passion through concrete examples. For instance, describe a performance that moved you or a challenge you overcame in your musical studies.

Reflection and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay to ensure you’re not just stating facts but also reflecting on their significance. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. How did a specific experience change you? Why does this matter in the context of your future studies and career in music?

Revision Checklist

Before finalizing your essay, use this checklist:

• Does each paragraph focus on one main idea?
• Have you included specific examples and metrics?
• Is your voice active and engaging?
• Have you answered the “So what?” for each section?
• Have you proofread for grammar and clarity?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid common mistakes such as generic openers, excessive jargon, and overly complex sentences. Ensure that your essay remains focused on your unique experiences and aspirations. Do not invent facts or embellish your achievements; authenticity is crucial.