How to Write an Essay for the George F. Cribb Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by considering the following four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or personal challenges that have motivated you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Highlight your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Use specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours, to demonstrate your dedication and impact.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your education or experiences that the scholarship will help you address. Explain why further study at Stetson University is essential for your growth and future plans.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values and character. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline for your essay. A strong structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your motivation for applying.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph 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 and your commitment to making a difference in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements and instead provide concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, and transitions should guide the reader logically through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major section. Ensure that you are not only stating facts but also reflecting on their significance. This reflection will help clarify your motivations and the impact of your experiences.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls when writing your essay:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not use passive voice; ensure that your writing is direct and engaging.
• Refrain from fabricating details or exaggerating achievements—honesty is crucial.