Evans Betty Drees Johnson Endowed Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. Consider experiences that have shaped your values, interests, and aspirations. What unique perspectives do you bring to Stetson?
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, both academically and personally. Quantify your achievements with metrics where possible, such as GPA, project outcomes, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in your education or experiences. Discuss how the scholarship will help bridge this gap and facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Include humanizing details that showcase your character. What drives you? What are your values? Specific anecdotes can illustrate your personality and commitment.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. Organize your essay into clear sections, each focusing on one idea. Start with a compelling introduction that draws the reader in, followed by body paragraphs that explore your background, achievements, the gap, and personality. Conclude with a strong statement about your future goals and how the scholarship will aid you in achieving them.

Drafting Voice and Structure

When drafting, use an active voice and maintain clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about education,” provide a specific example of a moment that ignited your passion. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea and transition logically to the next, ensuring a cohesive narrative flow.

Revision and Reflection: The “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revise your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What does your experience reveal about your character? How does it connect to your future at Stetson? Ensure that your essay reflects your growth and potential impact on the university community.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate details about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to highlight your role in achievements.
• Ensure that every detail serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.