How to Write Your Essay for the Sally Stevens Scholarships

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a strong foundation for your essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your journey in the arts. What experiences have shaped your passion for theatre and dance? Consider specific moments or influences that have been pivotal in your development as an artist.
• Achievements: Identify your significant accomplishments in the arts. This could include performances, productions, awards, or leadership roles. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., number of performances, size of productions).
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your artistic journey. This could be skills, experiences, or educational opportunities that further study will provide. Clearly articulate why receiving this scholarship is essential for your growth.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your individuality. What values drive your artistic practice? How do you engage with your community through the arts?

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay for clarity and impact. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your passion for the arts. Avoid generic statements and aim for a hook that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail specific situations, tasks, actions, and results related to your achievements and background.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will bridge the gap in your education and artistic journey. Reinforce your commitment to making a positive impact in the arts.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead, focus on concrete details and personal reflections that convey your journey and aspirations. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, guiding the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself: What insights does this essay provide about me? How does it connect my background, achievements, and aspirations? Make sure that every section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating why your experiences and goals matter.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

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

• Avoiding vague language and generalizations—be specific about your experiences.
• Steering clear of passive voice; always attribute actions to yourself.
• Not adhering to the scholarship guidelines regarding length and submission format.
• Failing to proofread for grammar and clarity—errors can detract from your message.