How to Write an Essay for the Palmer Lowell Edwards Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Consider your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your values and aspirations. What specific moments or influences have driven you to pursue higher education?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Focus on measurable outcomes, such as leadership roles, community service hours, or academic honors. Use the STAR method to detail your contributions and the impact you made.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey and how further study at the University of West Florida will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and career goals and how this scholarship will facilitate them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character. What values guide you? How do you engage with your community? Specific details will make your narrative more relatable and memorable.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your essay logically. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, with a clear connection to the scholarship's values. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
2. Background: Describe your journey and influences.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments using the STAR method.
4. The Gap: Explain what you hope to gain from your education.
5. Personality: Share personal insights that reflect your values and character.
6. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to making a positive impact and your gratitude for the opportunity.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Each sentence should contribute to your narrative, answering the “So what?” question for the reader. Ensure that your passion for your field of study and your future goals comes through, supported by concrete examples.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. Read through your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity, coherence, and impact. Ask yourself if each section answers the prompt effectively and if it reflects your unique story. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Revise until your essay feels polished and compelling.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with clichés or broad statements.
• Do not rely on vague expressions of passion without evidence.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to specific subjects.
• Ensure that all facts are accurate and verifiable; do not invent experiences or achievements.