How to Write Your Essay for the Sgt. Jon Brough Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Identify key experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that showcase your skills and dedication. Use metrics or tangible outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or skills and how further study at Southwestern Illinois College will help bridge that gap. Be honest about your ambitions and needs.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This humanizing detail can help the committee connect with you on a deeper level.

Creating an Outline

With your ideas organized, create a structured outline for your essay. Each section should flow logically, guiding the reader through your narrative.

1. Introduction: Begin with a compelling moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements and aim for specificity.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one idea from your brainstorming. Use the STAR method to describe situations, tasks, actions, and results for your achievements.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for your future. Articulate your commitment to making a positive impact and how the scholarship will facilitate that journey.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, concise language. Engage the reader by showing your personality and values rather than telling. Use specific examples and avoid vague claims. Remember to answer the “So what?” question throughout your essay, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. This distance will help you view your essay with fresh eyes. During revision, focus on clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure each paragraph contributes meaningfully to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if your essay effectively communicates your motivations and future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes when writing your essay:

• Using clichés or generic statements that fail to convey your unique story.
• Neglecting to provide specific examples or metrics that demonstrate your achievements.
• Failing to reflect on the significance of your experiences and how they shape your future.
• Writing in passive voice, which can weaken the impact of your narrative.