How to Craft Your Essay for the JTLA Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your leadership style. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your path?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments. Focus on metrics and outcomes. How have you demonstrated leadership in your school, community, or workplace?
• The Gap: Identify what skills or knowledge you lack that further study at Tarleton State University will help you acquire. Be specific about how this scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. What values drive your actions? Include humanizing details that reflect your character and aspirations.

Outline Your Essay

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

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that illustrates your leadership journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and the insights gained from your experiences.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your past has prepared you for future challenges and your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your role in each situation. Avoid clichés and abstract language. Each paragraph should present one clear idea, with logical transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Ensure that your reflections answer the “So what?” question—why do your experiences matter?

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising to approach your essay with fresh eyes. Look for opportunities to enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that every section contributes to the overall narrative and that your reflections provide insight into your character and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements and generalizations. Provide specific examples and measurable outcomes.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your direct involvement in your achievements.
• Do not include invented facts or experiences. Authenticity is crucial in your essay.