How do you make a strong scholarships essay?

Writing essays for scholarships is a daunting task. What are some key elements or tips for crafting a compelling essay that stands out to the scholarship committee? Personal stories and examples would be appreciated!

I'd be more than happy to help with that! Here are some elements to pay attention to:

1. Understand the Scholarship Prompt: This becomes the foundation of your essay. Clearly understanding what the committee wants to know or see from your essay is crucial. Make sure you answer the question they're asking.

2. Start with a compelling introduction: Your beginning paragraph should seize the reader’s attention. You could start with a quote, a personal anecdote, or a provocative statement. Just make sure it aligns with the subject of your essay.

3. Make it personal and passionate: When you communicate personal experiences or stories, it makes your essay unique and helps you stand out. This is your chance to make the scholarship committee know you beyond your GPA and extracurricular activities. Convey your passion, commitment, or how you've overcome certain setbacks in your life.

4. Tailor it to the organization: Avoid writing one generic essay for all scholarship applications. Make sure to tailor your essay to fit the scholarship you're applying to. Research the sponsor organization. What's their mission? Their values? Incorporate those within your essay to show you're a good fit.

5. Describe how the scholarship would impact you: Explain what the scholarship would mean for you. Would it help you pursue a certain course? Or facilitate a research project you’ve been planning? This helps demonstrate the potential value of investing in you.

6. Use specific examples: Instead of generic claims, support your points with specific examples. If you're discussing your community service, don't just say it was impactful; illustrate how it made a difference in your community.

7. Proofread and revise: After writing, always take the time to check your essay for grammar and spelling errors. This not only improves the quality of your writing but also shows that you take the application seriously.

For instance, if there is a prompt asking you about a challenge you've faced and how you overcame it, you could tell a story about how tackling a difficult AP Calculus course helped you foster patience and persistent qualities. You could discuss how you formed a study group with classmates and sought extra help after school, demonstrating your initiative and leadership. Ultimately your improved grade would showcase your dedication to overcoming academic obstacles.

Remember, scholarship essays might seem complex, but they are an opportunity for you to showcase your accomplishments, reveal your character, and stand out from the other applicants. Happy writing!