Crafting Your Essay for the Wells Fargo Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across these four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions. Consider significant moments that influenced your decision to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify your accomplishments both academically and in extracurricular activities. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or gaps in your academic or personal journey. Explain how further study at Eastern Florida State College will address these gaps and prepare you for future success.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with details that showcase your character. Share anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and what makes you unique.

Outline Your Essay

Organizing your thoughts is crucial. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Begin with a vivid moment or scene that captures your reader's attention. This could be a pivotal experience related to your education or personal growth.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to illustrate your achievements and how they relate to your future goals.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and the significance of the scholarship. Emphasize your commitment to making a positive impact in your community and how the scholarship will facilitate that.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your experiences and actions. Avoid vague statements and instead provide specific examples that demonstrate your points. Each paragraph should convey one main idea, ensuring clarity and coherence throughout your essay.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself: What have I learned from my experiences? How do they shape my future? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, demonstrating the significance of your journey and aspirations.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Your essay should reflect your unique voice and experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active voice to make your writing more engaging.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your achievements. Authenticity is key to a compelling narrative.