How to Craft Your Essay for the Roy Family Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped who you are. Consider family influences, education, and pivotal moments that led you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Quantify your contributions in school, work, or community service to demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic or professional goals and why further study at Stetson is essential.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, leadership, or commitment to making a difference.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to structure your essay effectively. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in. Use the following structure:

1. Introduction: Begin with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to your educational and career goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are “passionate” about a subject, describe a specific instance that ignited that passion. Reflect on what you learned from your experiences and why they matter to your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a step back and review your work. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences connect to your future aspirations? Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also demonstrates your potential impact as a Stetson student.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Ensure all claims are backed by specific examples and metrics.
• Steer clear of passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish experiences; authenticity is key.