Talamo Mosquera Dance Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Consider your journey in dance. What experiences have shaped your passion? Think about specific moments that influenced your decision to pursue this field.
• Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments in dance. Include measurable outcomes, such as performances, competitions, or community involvement. Use numbers and specific details to showcase your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that further education at Broward College can provide. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will help bridge the gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What drives you? What challenges have you overcome? This is your chance to humanize your application.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to structure your essay effectively. A suggested format might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that captures your passion for dance.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring each section flows logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making an impact in the dance community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and use specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are “passionate about dance,” demonstrate this through your experiences and insights. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, leading the reader through your narrative.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return to your essay, ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does it convey your unique story? Does it answer the prompt effectively? Ensure that your reflections and insights are clear and impactful.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Do not fabricate experiences or accomplishments; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructs to engage the reader.
• Ensure clarity and coherence in your writing; each paragraph should contribute to your overall narrative.