How to Craft Your Essay for the Soublette Family Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped who you are today. Consider challenges you've faced and how they have influenced your educational journey.
• Achievements: List specific accomplishments that demonstrate your dedication and capability. Use metrics where possible, such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and how the scholarship will help you bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how further study at Nova Southeastern University will facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. These details will humanize your application and make it memorable.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts logically. Start with an engaging hook that draws the reader in, followed by sections dedicated to each of the four buckets. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear narrative flow.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice that showcases your agency and initiative. Begin with a specific moment or scene that encapsulates your journey, rather than starting with general statements. Throughout your essay, reflect on your experiences and articulate what you learned and how it has shaped your aspirations.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Ensure that your reflections connect back to the scholarship’s mission and clarify why your experiences matter. This will strengthen your argument for why you deserve the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of common pitfalls. Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not provide tangible evidence of your claims. Ensure that all facts are accurate and reflect your true experiences. Lastly, steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; instead, strive for clarity and directness in your writing.