Writing a scholarship application essay you most probably understand, that there’s a lot at stake. Thus, making this piece truly outstanding is definitely worth the effort. We’ve collected a set of simple, yet efficient tips to help you create a scholarship essay that will fulfill its purpose to the greatest extent.
Target the Message
A scholarship essay has to be specific. That’s the golden rule you need to remember, even if you apply for multiple programs or grants at the same time. Although scholarship essay prompts may be similar, they all will have specific features, you will have to address to demonstrate both your attention to details and desire to impress a particular scholarship committee.
You’ll have to be totally aware of who you’re talking to. Think of the people, who are going to be decision-makers for this scholarship. What do they want to hear? What is the image of the ideal candidate they might have in their heads? Try to answer these questions, before you start working on your essay. Then put the answers into writing.
Be Positive
People love inspiring, uplifting stories. That’s why writing a scholarship essay based solely on all the suffering you’ve gone through is not a good idea. The final goal is not to make the reader cry over your story, but to show that you’re a perfect applicant for the position. All the difficulties we go through make us evolve. Prove it by examples from your personal experience. This way you’ll come off as a strong, determined personality, not a crybaby.
Build a Strong Thesis Statement
A thesis statement is crucial almost for every type of academic writing. A scholarship essay is not an exception. It has to answer one question: “What is the main point of my essay in one sentence?”. The sentence has to be logical, deep and insightful enough to devote the whole essay to it. The time, spent on crafting a perfect thesis statement is surely worth it. If you know what you’re talking about, the scholarship committee will know what you’re talking about too. That is a necessary condition of success.
Brag
You have to point out your strengths and accomplishments. You have to do your very best to be noticed among the crowd of other applicants, right? Nevertheless, you’ve got to make sure that each and every achievement you point out is coherent with the general intention of your writing. Mind your thesis statement and do your best to create a story that will engage your readers and describe your personal and professional victories in the most favorable way.
Answer the Real Question
Every scholarship essay will have a certain question you need to answer. However, the real question may be hidden between the lines. Think of a situation when your mom asks you: “Are you really going to this party?”. You doubtlessly know that the real question she has in mind is far more complex: “Have you finished all of your homework? Am I the one who’s going to give you the money for drinks? Don’t you think you haven’t helped around the house recently?”. Think of the true meaning of the question being posed in a scholarship essay prompt and try to answer it convincingly.
Slice of Life
There’s no need to turn your scholarship essay into a resume. Most of the time, you’ll be required to attach one separately. The essay has to highlight the personal traits, that make you the perfect fit for a scholarship. On the other hand, telling an entire story of your life will quickly get the reader bored. Thus, pick a “slice” of all your experiences, that corresponds to the general tone of your story and tell your reader about it with regard to the overall purpose.
Stand Out
You’re not the only person to apply for a scholarship. Fellow candidates most likely have similar backgrounds, plans and aspirations. Think of the accomplishments and personal traits that make you unique. Your experience, particularly ambitious goals and projects you want to lead or participate – all of that can help you stand out from the crowd. Write about things you’re particularly passionate about. Your audience will definitely feel it.
Writing a scholarship essay may not be the easiest task of your life. Nevertheless, the result is truly worth it. Don’t give up, push through it and win yourself sufficient help for your studies and other projects.