How to Craft Your Essay for the Laird B. Anderson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to ensure a well-rounded essay:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your perspective. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your goals?
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Focus on specific metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your leadership and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge, and explain how further study at Florida State University will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and unique qualities. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating an Outline

With your material gathered, outline your essay to establish a logical flow. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Each section should focus on one idea, leading to a natural progression of thought:

1. Introduction: Begin with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they shaped your aspirations.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments, using specific examples to illustrate your impact.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate your need for further study and how it aligns with your goals.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, use specific details and metrics to support your claims. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, with smooth transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself what insights you have gained and why they matter. Ensure that each section answers the question, “So what?” This reflection will deepen the impact of your essay and clarify your commitment to your future goals.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid generic statements and superlatives that lack evidence.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences; authenticity is key.
• Refrain from using bureaucratic language; keep your writing clear and engaging.