How to Write an Essay for the Jesse Earle Bowden Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by reflecting on four key material buckets:

• Background: What experiences shaped your interest in journalism? Consider pivotal moments or influences that led you to pursue this field.
• Achievements: Highlight significant accomplishments in journalism, such as published articles, internships, or leadership roles in relevant organizations. Use metrics where possible to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your experience or education that this scholarship could help you fill. Explain why further study is essential for your growth as a journalist.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and unique perspectives. This humanizes your application and helps the committee connect with you.

Crafting an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your essay. Start with an engaging introduction that hooks the reader. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring you weave in reflections on how each experience has shaped your aspirations in journalism. Conclude with a strong closing that summarizes your commitment to the field and the impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying you are “passionate about journalism,” illustrate your passion through specific examples of your work or experiences. Reflect on what these experiences taught you and why they matter in the context of your future goals.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and coherence. Ensure that each paragraph answers the “So what?” question—why does this experience matter to your journey as a journalist? Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives and improve your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays. Avoid vague statements, passive voice, and overly complex language. Ensure all details are truthful and verifiable; do not exaggerate your experiences or achievements. Lastly, steer clear of generic openings and conclusions; your essay should reflect your unique voice and journey.