How to Write Your AVID Promise Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your perspective. Consider how your time in the Chapel Hill Carrboro Public Schools has influenced your aspirations.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. This could include academic honors, leadership roles, community service, or projects you've spearheaded.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that further education can provide. Be specific about your goals and how the scholarship will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This is your chance to show who you are beyond your achievements.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure a logical flow. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or story that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your upbringing and educational experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their impact.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational goals and how the scholarship fits into them.
5. Personality: Share personal insights that connect your story to your aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express gratitude for the opportunity.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying, "I am passionate about education," illustrate this with a specific example of how education has changed your life. Ensure each paragraph focuses on one idea and transitions smoothly to the next.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflection. Ask yourself, "So what?" after each major point to ensure you convey the significance of your experiences. This reflection will help you articulate how your background, achievements, and aspirations align with the scholarship's mission.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichéd phrases or generalizations.
• Steer clear of vague statements about passion without supporting evidence.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable.