How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Leo Goodwin Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by focusing on four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, challenges overcome, or pivotal moments that directed your path toward Broward College.
• Achievements: Detail your accomplishments. Quantify your successes, such as GPA, leadership roles, volunteer work, or projects that demonstrate your commitment and impact. Be specific about your responsibilities and the outcomes.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or career. Explain why further study at Broward College is essential for you to achieve your goals. This could include skills, knowledge, or opportunities that the scholarship would help you access.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your determination, resilience, and commitment to your field of study.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create a structured outline. Start with an engaging opening that sets the scene or presents a compelling moment from your life. Follow this with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring a logical flow from one idea to the next. Conclude with a strong closing statement that reiterates your goals and the significance of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, focus on genuine reflections. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, with transitions that guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes and ask yourself: “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every point made contributes to a deeper understanding of who you are and why you deserve the scholarship. Edit for clarity, coherence, and conciseness.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements. Open with a specific moment or story.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language. Keep your writing direct and engaging.
• Ensure you answer the prompt fully, addressing all aspects the committee is interested in.