How to Write Your Essay for the WCC Faculty Council Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational goals. Consider family influences, challenges you’ve faced, or pivotal moments that directed you toward Waubonsee Community College.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use metrics where possible, such as GPA, awards, or leadership roles, to illustrate your contributions and impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your education or skills that this scholarship will help you address. Explain why further study at Waubonsee is essential for your personal and professional growth.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This is your opportunity to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Draft a clear outline based on your brainstormed ideas. Organize your essay into sections that flow logically from one to the next. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your experience or motivation.
2. Background: Discuss your journey and what has led you to apply for this scholarship.
3. Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Explain what you hope to gain from this scholarship and how it fits into your educational plans.
5. Personality: Share insights that reflect your character and aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your future goals and express gratitude for the opportunity.

Drafting with Voice and Clarity

As you draft, focus on using an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Each paragraph should center on one idea, leading the reader through your narrative. Use transitions to connect your thoughts and maintain a coherent flow. Remember to answer the “So what?” question by reflecting on the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?” Reflection

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each section answers the prompt effectively and contributes to your overall narrative. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism. Ensure that your final essay reflects your authentic voice and clearly articulates your goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate or invent details about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to a subject.
• Ensure your essay is focused and relevant to the scholarship prompt.