How to Write Your Essay for the Robert Elmore Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To structure your thoughts effectively, divide your brainstorming into four categories: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family influences, education, and experiences that have shaped your perspective. What events or people have inspired your educational journey?
• Achievements: List your accomplishments in academics, extracurricular activities, or community service. Use specific metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact, such as leadership roles or awards received.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your experience or knowledge that further education will help you address. Articulate why this scholarship is essential for you to achieve your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Consider what sets you apart from other candidates and how your unique perspective can contribute to the Broward College community.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. A typical structure might look like this:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in. This could be a specific moment or anecdote that highlights your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Allocate one paragraph for each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear main idea and supports your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future. Reinforce your commitment to your education and community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid bureaucratic phrasing and clichés. Instead of saying you are “passionate” about your field, describe a specific project or experience that illustrates your dedication. Remember to answer the “So what?” question throughout your essay by reflecting on the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising to gain fresh perspective. Focus on clarity and coherence. Ask yourself if each paragraph contributes to your overall message. Ensure that your reflections answer why your experiences matter and how they relate to your future goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of vague language; instead, use specific examples and metrics to support your claims.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial in your application.
• Ensure your essay flows logically from one section to another, maintaining a clear narrative throughout.