How to Craft Your Essay for the Eshleman Singers Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, experiences, and influences that have shaped who you are today. Consider moments that sparked your interest in your field of study or your commitment to your community.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, focusing on quantifiable outcomes. Think about leadership roles, projects, or initiatives where you made a significant impact. Use metrics where possible to illustrate your contributions.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or knowledge that further study at Stetson will address. Be specific about why this scholarship is essential for your academic and career trajectory.
• Personality: Humanize your essay by sharing details that reveal your values and character. Use anecdotes to illustrate your passions and motivations, making sure they resonate with the scholarship’s purpose.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Follow with sections that cover each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to making a positive impact through your education at Stetson.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, provide specific examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey a single idea and transition smoothly to the next, guiding the reader through your narrative. Remember to reflect on your experiences and articulate why they matter, answering the “So what?” question in each section.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and answers the prompt effectively. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While drafting your essay, be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements; instead, begin with a specific moment or story.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion; back up your claims with tangible examples.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists; this weakens your writing.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial in your narrative.