Sbs Senior Completion Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Structure your brainstorming around four key areas: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your experiences that have shaped your academic and personal journey. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your decision to pursue your studies?
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic career. Quantify these achievements where possible, such as GPA, projects completed, or leadership roles held.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in terms of resources or opportunities that this scholarship could help address. Why is this scholarship essential for your educational journey?
• Personality: Highlight unique aspects of your character. What values drive you? Include personal anecdotes that reflect your motivations and aspirations.

Outline Your Essay

Once you have gathered your thoughts, create a structured outline. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction with a hook
2. Background section
3. Achievements section
4. The Gap section
5. Personality section
6. Conclusion that ties everything together and reflects on your future goals

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, be specific about your experiences and what they mean to you. Reflect on the significance of each achievement and challenge, answering the “So what?” question to emphasize their impact on your journey.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revisiting your work. Look for clarity and coherence in your arguments. Ensure that each section contributes to a cohesive narrative. Ask yourself: Does each paragraph reflect my journey and aspirations? Does it answer the prompt effectively? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements. Instead, begin with a specific moment or experience.
• Steer clear of vague language and unsupported claims. Use concrete examples and data to back up your statements.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is key to a compelling narrative.
• Ensure your essay is well-organized, with each paragraph focusing on a single idea.