How to Craft Your Essay for the Frank Harrowing Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, experiences, and motivations that have shaped your educational path. Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal moments that sparked your interest in higher education.
• Achievements: Identify your significant accomplishments. Use specific metrics or examples to illustrate your contributions, such as leadership roles, volunteer work, or academic successes. Quantify your impact where possible.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your education. Be candid about what you lack and articulate how further study at San Jacinto College will help you bridge that gap and enable your future success.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that highlight your resilience, determination, or commitment to your field of study.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or aspirations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future. Emphasize your commitment to making a difference in your community or field.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate, demonstrate your passion through examples and outcomes. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, and transitions should guide the reader logically through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major section. What insights have you gained, and why do they matter? Ensure that your reflections are clear and that they connect your past experiences to your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements. Begin with a specific moment that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active verbs to convey your actions and impact.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.
• Refrain from using overly complex language. Clarity and precision are more impactful than jargon.