How to Craft Your Essay for the Joyce B. Cross Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences, family influences, and educational journey. What shaped your decision to pursue higher education at Broward College?
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Focus on specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify any challenges or obstacles you have faced in your education. Explain how these experiences have motivated you to seek further study and how this scholarship will help bridge the gap.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reveal your values and character. What unique perspectives do you bring to your studies and community?

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that encapsulates your motivation for applying.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically into the next. Use specific examples and reflect on what you learned from each experience.
3. Conclusion: Reiterate how the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and career goals. Reflect on your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences. Avoid generic statements and clichés; instead, focus on specific details that illustrate your journey. Each paragraph should contain one main idea, supported by evidence from your life. Keep your tone confident yet reflective, showing your growth and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph clearly communicates its significance and connects back to the scholarship’s purpose. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain fresh perspectives on your writing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or vague statements. Begin with a specific moment that captures your reader's attention.
• Steer clear of passive voice; ensure your writing is direct and engaging.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your achievements. Authenticity is key to a compelling narrative.