How to Write Your Essay for the Cowart-Johnson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: List your academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Quantify your impact where possible—think in terms of leadership roles, awards, or projects that demonstrate your capabilities.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This can include your interests, motivations, or pivotal moments that define who you are.

Creating an Outline

Draft a structured outline based on your brainstorming session. Each section of your essay should focus on one of the four buckets, ensuring a logical flow. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in, followed by your background, achievements, the gap, and conclude with your personality insights. This organization will help maintain clarity and coherence in your writing.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write your first draft, use an active voice and specific language to convey your experiences. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on concrete examples that illustrate your journey. Open with an engaging scene or moment that captures attention, and ensure each paragraph answers the question, “So what?” reflecting on the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. Focus on clarity, coherence, and the overall narrative. Ensure that each section connects back to the scholarship’s goals and that your reflections highlight your commitment to making an impact. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; honesty is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your active role in achievements.
• Ensure that your essay stays focused and relevant to the scholarship prompt.