How to Write a Winning Essay for the Arah Claire Johnson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To effectively structure your essay, brainstorm content across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, personal challenges, or significant events that motivated your pursuit of higher education.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Quantify your achievements where possible, such as GPA, awards, or leadership roles, and describe the impact of these experiences.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your education or experiences that this scholarship would help fill. Explain why further study at Clackamas Community College is essential for your personal and professional growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Outlining Your Essay

Organize your brainstorming notes into a clear outline. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that illustrates your journey.
2. Background: Provide context about your experiences and motivations.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Discuss what you need to further your education and how this scholarship fits into your plans.
5. Personality: Share personal insights that showcase your character and aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and reaffirm your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language to convey your experiences. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead, focus on unique details that illustrate your character and achievements. Each paragraph should have a clear focus, contributing to the overall narrative and leading the reader through your journey.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay for clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that you are not just stating facts but also reflecting on their significance. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain outside perspectives and refine your message.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays:

• Avoid vague statements and empty passion—use specific examples to demonstrate your points.
• Steer clear of bureaucratic language; keep your writing personal and engaging.
• Do not invent details or embellish experiences; authenticity is crucial.