How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Larry Forbes Nursing Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to create a structured narrative:

• Background: What personal experiences have shaped your desire to pursue nursing? Consider family influences, significant events, or challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use metrics where possible—GPA, volunteer hours, or leadership roles.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you still need to learn or achieve to reach your goals. Why is further education essential for you? Be honest about your aspirations.
• Personality: Share unique details about yourself that humanize your application. What values drive you? How do you engage with your community?

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your ideas, outline your essay to ensure a logical flow. Start with an engaging opening that reflects a specific moment or insight related to your nursing journey. Follow with sections that explore each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong statement about your future impact in the nursing field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, aim for an active voice. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Avoid vague statements; instead, show your passion through concrete experiences. Each paragraph should focus on one idea, with smooth transitions to guide the reader through your narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes and ask yourself: What did I learn from each experience? Why does it matter? Ensure that each section answers the “So what?” question, highlighting your growth and future aspirations in nursing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and generic statements. Avoid beginning with phrases like, “From a young age,” as they can detract from your unique story. Ensure all facts are accurate and relevant to your experience, steering clear of exaggerations or invented details. Lastly, proofread for clarity and grammatical accuracy before submission.