How to Write Your Essay for the Los Angeles AFB Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by considering the four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, family influences, and experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider moments that ignited your interest in pursuing higher education.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, such as academic awards, leadership roles, or community service. Use metrics where possible, like GPA, project outcomes, or volunteer hours, to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth through this scholarship. What challenges have you faced that the scholarship would help you overcome? Be specific about your educational goals and how they relate to your future aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What motivates you? What do you stand for? Use specific examples to humanize your narrative.

Creating an Outline

With your material gathered, create a structured outline. Each section of your essay should correspond to the buckets mentioned earlier. Aim for a logical flow:

1. Start with a compelling introduction that opens in-scene or with a specific moment.
2. Follow with your background, highlighting key experiences.
3. Detail your achievements, using evidence to showcase your impact.
4. Discuss the gap and how the scholarship will facilitate your educational goals.
5. Conclude with a reflection on your journey and your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid clichés and ensure every sentence adds value. Use specific details to support your claims, answering the “So what?” question in each section. This reflection will help the committee understand your motivations and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, checking for coherence and flow. Ensure each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative. Ask yourself what insights or reflections you want the reader to take away from your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Opening with vague statements or clichés.
• Using passive voice or abstract language without clear actors.
• Failing to provide specific examples or metrics.
• Neglecting to reflect on personal growth or insights.