How to Craft Your Essay for the Lamont and Johnnie Cook Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you've overcome.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that highlight your skills and dedication. Use specific metrics or examples, such as projects completed, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any areas where you feel you need further development. What skills or knowledge do you hope to gain through your studies at Tallahassee State College? Articulate how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your character. What values drive you? Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, creativity, or commitment to making a difference.

Structuring Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment in your life. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. Consider using the STAR method to structure paragraphs about achievements or challenges:

1. Situation: Describe the context.
2. Task: Explain your responsibilities.
3. Action: Detail the steps you took.
4. Result: Share the outcomes and what you learned.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Aim for clarity and conciseness. Each paragraph should contribute to a cohesive narrative that reflects your journey and aspirations.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Review your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and impact. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point. Ensure that your reflections on experiences and achievements clearly convey their significance and how they relate to your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you prepare your essay, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Instead, dive directly into a meaningful moment.
• Steer clear of passive voice and abstract language. Keep your writing active and engaging.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship applications.