How to Craft Your Essay for the Geoffrey and Kay Jollay Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Your essay should effectively showcase your background, achievements, gaps, and personality. Consider the following:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Think about family influences, cultural background, or pivotal moments that led you to pursue your studies.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Include specific metrics or outcomes, such as awards, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. What knowledge or skills do you wish to acquire through your studies at Stetson? Articulate why this scholarship is essential for your academic and professional development.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What drives you? How do you connect with others? Specific stories can help the committee understand who you are beyond your achievements.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent structure. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment from your life that leads into your main themes.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly into the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and reiterate how the scholarship will empower you to make a difference at Stetson and beyond.

Drafting Voice and Style

When writing your essay, use an active voice and be specific. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are “passionate” about a subject, demonstrate that passion through detailed examples and experiences. Make sure each paragraph conveys a single idea and connects logically to the next.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences shape your future goals? Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also highlights your potential impact as a student at Stetson University.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be aware of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Do not rely on vague descriptions of your passions without evidence.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and decisions.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable.