How to Write Your Essay for the Mary Gordon Terry Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider pivotal moments that led you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics where possible—such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours—to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain how the scholarship will help bridge these gaps and enhance your educational experience at Stetson.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This will help the committee see you as a unique individual, not just a list of qualifications.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in, perhaps with a specific moment or insight. Follow with body paragraphs that delve into each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph focuses on a single idea. Conclude by tying your experiences and aspirations back to the scholarship's purpose.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, demonstrate this passion through concrete examples and stories. Each section should reflect on what you learned and why it matters, answering the question of “So what?”

Revision and Reflection

After drafting, take time to revise your essay. Look for opportunities to enhance clarity and coherence. Ensure that each paragraph flows logically into the next. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Reflect on how well your essay aligns with the scholarship’s goals and your personal narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements that fail to engage the reader.
• Steer clear of vague claims about your passion or dedication without supporting evidence.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists; this can weaken your narrative.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable; do not embellish or invent details.