How to Craft Your Scholarship Essay for the Larry Bracken Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your journey to journalism. What experiences shaped your interest in this field? Consider family influences, education, or significant events.
• Achievements: List your relevant accomplishments. Include metrics or outcomes where possible, such as articles published, internships completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack that this scholarship will help address. Be specific about your educational or professional aspirations and how this funding will facilitate your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique as a candidate for this scholarship?

Creating an Outline

Draft an outline based on your brainstorming. Structure your essay to flow logically from one section to the next. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in, followed by background, achievements, the gap, and conclude with a strong closing statement that reinforces your commitment to journalism and the impact you wish to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about journalism,” share a moment that ignited your passion. Use concrete examples and details to illustrate your points, answering the “So what?” for each section of your essay.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with fresh eyes. Check for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if your reflections answer the “So what?” question—why your story matters and how it connects to your future in journalism.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays. Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements. Steer clear of vague claims about your passion without evidence. Ensure that every detail you include is truthful and relevant to your narrative. Lastly, keep your tone confident but humble; let your achievements speak for themselves without overstating them.