How to Craft Your Essay for the Ruth Cobb Arnold Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To structure your thoughts, use the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your experiences and influences that have shaped your educational journey. What personal or academic challenges have you faced?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to education. Include specific metrics or outcomes that highlight your leadership or initiative.
• The Gap: Think about what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge and how further study at Stetson University will help you bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and character. This will help the committee see you as a well-rounded individual.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your ideas, create an outline to organize your essay. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in. Each section of your essay should focus on a specific idea, transitioning smoothly to the next. A suggested structure might be:

1. Introduction: Begin with an engaging moment or experience that sets the tone.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational goals and how Stetson can help.
5. Personality: Share a personal story that reflects your values.
6. Conclusion: Reinforce your commitment to making an impact in education.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about education, provide concrete examples of your involvement in educational initiatives. Remember to reflect on what you learned from your experiences and how they have shaped your aspirations.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Does it clearly convey your journey and aspirations? Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and supports your application for the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include irrelevant details that do not support your main message.
• Steer clear of passive voice—always highlight your actions and achievements.
• Ensure your essay is honest; do not fabricate experiences or accomplishments.