Scholarship Essays!

Hey Team 2018! 

It's CERTAINLY time for you to be working on your scholarship essays! Here are some tips! 

1. Grab your reader's ATTENTION! 

Out of the First Lines below, which one would you be more likely to read??? 

• Example #1: Strong leadership skills are important for many reasons.
• Example #2: November 12, 2004, was the day I lost everything.

Think of how you can stand out from the pack and use YOUR unique voice! 

2. Edit and reuse your Essay (don't make MORE work!).

With a few edits, you can adjust your essay to be used for more than one application. Be sure that you are answering the specific question for each essay but keep in mind, there is usually overlap of topics! 

3. Keep your readers INTERESTED!

Be creative. Think outside the box. While your mom or dad may be your biggest role model, a lot of students will likely say that...Can you come up with a different answer? Or a unique approach? 

4. Follow the Essay Instructions.

The guidelines are there for a reason. Don’t write under the limit. Don’t write over the limit. Submit the application early...you will not get an extension. Be sure to answer the question(s). If they ask for the file as a .pdf, take the time to send it as a .pdf. 

5. Stay Focused on the TOPIC.

Be sure everything you write is connected to the topic. Do not go on a tangent just to add words to meet a word count. Readers are reviewing A LOT of essays and just need one reason to stop reading. 

6. Have a Point!

THESIS THESIS THESIS

You can look at your thesis as your one-sentence answer to the essay question. The rest of your essay should fully support your thesis statement and paint an intriguing picture for your readers. 

7. Check Your Essay for Spelling Errors.

In fact, have a friend and a teacher/counselor check your essays too. 

8. Use Correct Grammar and Punctuation.

Take your time to write, read, re-read and re-write as needed. Do your best and then seek help from someone you know is a good writer (see #7). 

9. Care About What You’re Writing.

When choosing your topic or thesis, be sure it is something that you personally care about sharing. You'll stand out as passionate! Bonus- It is easier to write about topics that you care about! 

10. Avoid Repetative Conclusions.

Don't just rewrite your thesis. Find a new way to restate it when wrapping up your essay. End with a STRONG, INTERESTING conclusion. Take your time when crafting this! 

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