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How to Write Your Essay for the SGM Larry Strickland Scholarship
By Daur, ScholarshipTop founder and scholarship data reviewer
Reviewed by ScholarshipTop editorial review · Published Apr 22, 2026 · Updated Apr 26, 2026
ScholarshipTop editorial guide. Writing guidance does not guarantee eligibility, selection, or award payment.
Understanding the Prompt
Before you begin drafting your essay, take time to carefully read and understand the scholarship prompt. The SGM Larry Strickland Memorial Fund and Scholarship is aimed at students who are affiliated with the Association of the United States Army. Your essay should reflect your connection to this community and how the scholarship will support your educational journey. Consider what the committee is looking for in terms of commitment to service, leadership, and the impact of your studies.
Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets
To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:
- Background: Reflect on your experiences related to the military community or the Association of the United States Army. What personal or family experiences have shaped your perspective?
- Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments in your academic or extracurricular life. Use metrics or concrete examples to illustrate your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or community service hours.
- The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help address. Be honest about your goals and how this funding will bridge the gap.
- Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Consider moments that have defined you and how they relate to your future aspirations.
Creating an Outline
Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A typical structure might include:
- Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or story that draws the reader in. Avoid general statements and focus on a specific instance that illustrates your connection to the military community.
- Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Transition smoothly between sections, ensuring each paragraph builds on the last.
- Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your educational and career goals. Reiterate your commitment to contributing positively to the military community.
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Drafting Voice and Style
Your writing should be active and engaging. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. When discussing achievements, quantify your contributions where possible. For instance, instead of saying you led a team, describe how many people were involved, the duration of the project, and the outcome achieved. This specificity will help the committee visualize your impact.
Revision and the “So What?” Factor
After drafting your essay, take a step back and review it with fresh eyes. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights are you providing? How does your story connect to the scholarship’s mission? Ensure that every paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative of your commitment to education and the military community.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of these common mistakes:
- Avoid clichés in your opening. Instead of stating your passion, show it through a specific example.
- Do not use passive voice. Ensure your writing is direct and active.
- Steer clear of vague generalizations. Each statement should be backed by evidence or personal experience.
- Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
FAQ
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