Los Angeles City Section Scholar Athlete Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To develop your essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, family influences, and early experiences in sports and academics. Consider how these factors have shaped your identity.
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments in sports and academics. Include metrics such as grades, awards, leadership roles, and community service. Be specific about your contributions and their impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you feel you need further development. Explain why this scholarship and continued education are essential for your growth and future aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This adds depth and helps the committee connect with you as an individual.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline can help you organize your thoughts effectively. Consider the following format:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that encapsulates your experience as a scholar-athlete.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically to the next. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for future challenges and how this scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about sports, describe a specific moment when you overcame a challenge in athletics or academics. This adds authenticity and engages the reader.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each major point to ensure that you are not only stating facts but also reflecting on their significance. This reflection will deepen your essay and clarify your motivations and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid generic openers; start with a specific moment that draws the reader in.
• Do not rely on empty superlatives; support your claims with concrete examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable; do not invent experiences or achievements.