How to Write Your Essay for the Stubbs Family Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, consider your experiences and insights across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your journey. What experiences have shaped your interest in the PGA and golf education? Consider specific moments that influenced your path.
• Achievements: List your relevant accomplishments. What have you done that demonstrates your commitment to golf, education, or community service? Be specific—include metrics or outcomes where possible.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that this scholarship can help address. How will further education enhance your skills and opportunities in the golf industry?
• Personality: Share personal details that humanize your story. What values drive you? How do you engage with others in your community or the golf world?

Structuring Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. Start with an engaging opening that sets the scene or shares a pivotal moment in your journey. Follow with paragraphs that each focus on one of the four material buckets, ensuring a logical flow between sections. Conclude with a strong closing that ties your experiences back to the scholarship's goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice throughout your essay. Rather than stating what you have always been passionate about, show your passion through specific examples and achievements. Avoid clichés and strive for authenticity in your writing. Aim for clarity and precision, ensuring each sentence adds value to your narrative.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and assess your essay. Ask yourself: What insights have I shared? Why do they matter? Ensure each paragraph reflects not just what you have done, but also what you learned and how it impacts your future. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements about your passion or interests. Instead, provide concrete examples that illustrate your commitment.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always identify the actor in your sentences.
• Do not invent experiences or embellish facts. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
• Resist the urge to start with generic statements. Hook the committee with a specific moment or insight right from the beginning.