How to Write Your Essay for the Emil Buehler Trust Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider significant moments that led you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academically and in extracurricular activities. Use specific metrics where possible, such as grades, awards, or leadership roles, to demonstrate your capabilities.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or knowledge. Explain how attending Broward College and receiving this scholarship will bridge these gaps and help you reach your aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've faced or passions that drive you.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section of your essay should correspond to one of the four material buckets. Start with a strong introduction that captures attention with a specific moment or story. Follow with paragraphs that delve into each bucket, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and flows logically to the next.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice. Avoid clichés and overly general statements. Instead, use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, building a cohesive narrative that reflects your journey and aspirations.

Reflection and the “So What?” Factor

Throughout your essay, continually ask yourself, “So what?” After describing experiences or achievements, reflect on their significance. What did you learn? How did it shape your future goals? This reflection adds depth to your essay and makes it more impactful.

Revision Checklist

After drafting, set your essay aside for a day or two before revising. When you return, check for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and revise based on their suggestions.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid vague statements and generalizations about your passions.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Do not rely on clichés or overused phrases that detract from your unique story.
• Ensure all facts and experiences shared are truthful and verifiable.