How to Write a Compelling Essay for the CJAM Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into the following four material buckets to structure your essay effectively:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences, cultural influences, and significant events that have shaped who you are. Consider how these experiences have motivated your educational journey.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use specific metrics, such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours, to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge areas where you seek growth or improvement. Explain why further study at Barry University is essential for bridging this gap and how the CJAM Scholarship will facilitate this process.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values and character. This is an opportunity to present yourself as a relatable and genuine candidate.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a clear outline for your essay. Each section should focus on one main idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures the reader's attention. Avoid generic statements; instead, dive into a specific experience that reflects your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Use the STAR method to structure your achievements and obstacles clearly.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your experiences and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact in your community through your education. Reinforce how the scholarship aligns with your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Avoid clichés and vague language; instead, use precise details and examples to convey your points. Each paragraph should transition smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow of ideas. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section to highlight the significance of your experiences.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a step back and review it critically. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each section answers the “So what?” question. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls as you write your essay:

• Avoid generic openings and filler phrases that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of empty superlatives; instead, provide evidence of your achievements.
• Do not rely on passive voice; use active constructions to highlight your role in your experiences.
• Ensure all information is factual and relevant to your application; do not fabricate details.