Tips for writing about myself in scholarship essays?

I'm working on a few scholarship applications and one of the prompts is to write about myself. I find it really hard to talk positively about myself without feeling awkward or braggy. Does anyone have any advice on how to write about personal experiences and qualities in a genuine way? Are there any specific techniques or tips that helped you express yourself well in scholarship essays?

Sure thing! Writing about oneself can indeed be a challenge, but I assure you, it gets easier with practice. Here are some steps you can follow as you prepare to write your scholarship essays.

1. Honesty & Authenticity: The first rule is always to be genuine. Avoid embellishing your experiences or talents. Instead, focus on narrating your authentic story and detailing your real-life experiences, achievements, and lessons learnt.

2. Identify Your Strengths and Relate them: Make a list of your strengths, accomplishments, and experiences that are relevant to the scholarship you are applying for. After identifying these, weave a story linking them. For instance, if you led a community service project, discuss the skills you developed and how that experience reflects your commitment to the values of the scholarship.

3. Show, Don’t Tell: Employ the “Show, don’t tell” technique. Rather than simply stating that you're a determined individual, share a specific instance that demonstrates your determination.

4. Discuss Challenges Overcome: Scholarship committees often appreciate stories of how individuals overcame obstacles. If you've experienced challenges on your journey, it can be influential to discuss how you tackled them and what you gained from those experiences.

5. Connect to Future Goals: Always try to connect these experiences and qualities to your future goals and how the scholarship can help you realize them. It makes your story relevant to the scholarship at hand and helps the committee see the value of investing in your future.

6. Remember, It's Not Bragging: It's important to remember that, in this instance, talking positively about yourself is not bragging—it's necessary. Try to frame it as you being the best advocate for your accomplishments and potentials.

7. Revise and Edit: Lastly, remember to revise and edit your essay thoroughly before submitting. You may also want to get a trusted teacher or mentor to offer feedback.

Good luck with your scholarship applications!