How to Write Your Essay for the Teresa B. Sjogren Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments, whether academic, extracurricular, or professional. Use metrics and details to quantify your impact, such as leadership roles or projects that made a difference.
• The Gap: Address what you currently lack in your education and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how further study at Broward College aligns with them.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure a logical flow of ideas. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in, followed by sections dedicated to each of the four buckets. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your educational goals and the impact you hope to achieve.

Drafting with Voice and Clarity

As you draft, maintain an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples that illustrate your points. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, and transitions should clearly guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your draft, revisit each section with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Ensure that your reflections convey personal growth and the significance of your experiences. This will help reinforce your commitment to making a positive impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls in scholarship essays. Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative. Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language. Lastly, ensure that all facts presented are accurate and verifiable; do not invent experiences or achievements.