Johnson Browning Hendley Graham Verdun Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by exploring four key areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions. What challenges have you faced? How have these experiences influenced your educational path?
• Achievements: List your accomplishments in academics, extracurricular activities, or community service. Use specific metrics where possible, such as grades, leadership roles, or projects you’ve completed. What impact did these achievements have on you and others?
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you address. Why is further study important for you? How will this scholarship bridge that gap?
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. What values drive you? Include anecdotes that reveal your character and passions, making sure they resonate with your aspirations.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to organize your thoughts. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements and instead, draw the reader in with a specific experience.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to a key area from your brainstorming. Ensure each section flows logically to the next, using transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals. Emphasize your commitment to making a positive impact in your community or field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Show, don’t just tell. Use concrete examples and details to illustrate your points. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, focus on what you have done and plan to do, and why it matters.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each section. Does it clearly convey your message? Does it reflect your growth and commitment? Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Ensure your final draft is polished, free of grammatical errors, and adheres to any word limits.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Don’t exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language.
• Make sure every detail serves a purpose in supporting your narrative.