Rosemary Duffy Larson Music Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets:

• Background: Consider your musical upbringing. What experiences shaped your love for music? Reflect on significant moments, such as performances, lessons, or influences from family and mentors.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your musical journey. This could include performances, competitions, or leadership roles in music-related activities. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., number of performances, awards won).
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your musical education and why this scholarship is essential for your growth. Be specific about the skills or knowledge you wish to gain through your studies at Broward College.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal insights. What values drive you as a musician? Share anecdotes that illustrate your character and commitment to your craft.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Organize your thoughts logically to ensure a coherent flow:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures your relationship with music.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to a specific bucket. Use the STAR method to describe achievements and challenges, highlighting your actions and their impact.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate how the scholarship will help you achieve your future goals in music.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Avoid clichés and ensure that every sentence contributes to your narrative. Show your passion through specific examples rather than general statements. Remember to reflect on what you have learned from each experience and why it matters to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also demonstrates your potential impact in the music field. Seek feedback from trusted mentors or peers and revise accordingly.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements that do not add value to your essay.
• Steer clear of vague claims about your passion without backing them up with concrete examples.
• Do not rely on passive voice; keep your writing dynamic and engaging.
• Ensure all facts are accurate and relevant to your personal narrative.