Bishop T Larry Kirkland Excellence Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Use the four material buckets to gather relevant content for your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your identity. Consider how your connection to the African Methodist Episcopal Church has influenced your life.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use metrics and specific outcomes to demonstrate your impact, such as leadership roles or community service initiatives.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek further growth or knowledge. Explain why this scholarship is crucial for your educational journey and how it will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, passions, and motivations. This will help the committee see you as a well-rounded individual.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey or connection to the community.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that each section transitions smoothly to the next, reinforcing the narrative of your personal and academic growth.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you have learned and how you plan to use your education to give back to the community. Reiterate the significance of the scholarship in achieving your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid vague statements and empty superlatives. Instead, provide concrete examples and specifics that illustrate your points. Remember to engage the reader with reflections on your experiences and the insights you gained.

Revision and “So What?”

Once you have a draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your essay reflects not just what you have done, but why it matters. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives and refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not fabricate experiences or embellish achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of overly complex language or jargon that may confuse the reader.