How to Craft Your Essay for the Nadine Lowery Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material from the following four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, educational experiences, and pivotal moments that shaped your values and ambitions. Consider how these experiences have influenced your decision to attend Stetson University.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours, to quantify your contributions and impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any areas where you seek growth. Discuss why further study is essential for you and how this scholarship will bridge the gap between your current situation and your future aspirations.
• Personality: Share unique details that humanize your essay. What values do you hold dear? What hobbies or interests shape who you are? Specific anecdotes can help paint a vivid picture of your character.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline that organizes your thoughts logically. Aim for a structure that flows naturally:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or in-scene description that draws the reader in. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to structure achievements and challenges, ensuring each section reflects on your growth and insights.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to your goals and how receiving the scholarship will facilitate your journey. Reflect on the broader impact you hope to make.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your essay should be written in an active voice, emphasizing your role in your achievements and experiences. Use specific details and accountable language to convey your points. Avoid vague statements and ensure each sentence contributes to your overall narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting your essay, take a step back and review it critically. Ask yourself: What changed in me through these experiences? Why does it matter? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating the significance of your journey and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, steer clear of the following:

• Cliché openers and filler phrases that dilute your message.
• Empty superlatives or vague expressions of passion without evidence.
• Passive voice; always highlight your active role in your narrative.
• Inventing facts or embellishing details; authenticity is key.