How to Write Your Essay for the Larry Scranton Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including family, education, and experiences that have shaped your aspirations. Consider significant moments that influenced your decision to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Focus on specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or projects that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current situation. Discuss any barriers you face in achieving your educational goals and how this scholarship can help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and character. This could include hobbies, volunteer work, or experiences that showcase your resilience and determination.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, outline your essay to ensure a logical flow. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or vivid scene. Follow with body paragraphs that cover each of the four buckets, ensuring that each paragraph focuses on one idea. Conclude with a strong closing statement that reflects on your journey and future aspirations.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on specific details and reflections that highlight your unique perspective. Each paragraph should connect back to the main theme of your essay, reinforcing your case for why you deserve this scholarship.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections clearly articulate why your experiences matter and how they relate to your future goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain additional perspectives, and be open to making changes that enhance clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés that do not add value.
• Do not include invented facts or embellishments; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of overly complex language or bureaucratic phrasing; clarity should always come first.