A great intro sentence could be something like, “I never thought I’d have to raise my siblings,” or, “On April 7, 1997, my life completely changed. " Your overview sentences could go on to say, “My parents struggled to look after us, so I become the only constant in my brothers’ lives. I had to grow up fast, but I also learned a lot about myself in the process. " Your thesis statement might look like this, “I realized that I have a lot to offer and I’m starting a career in social work. This scholarship will give me the financial support that I need to start my educational journey. "
For example, you might write: “If you looked at my parents’ mantle, overflowing with trophies and medals, you’d probably conclude that I was an athlete. But what you wouldn’t know is that I was born with only one leg. "
For example, you might write: “Mary Lewis dedicated her life to improving her community with public vegetable gardens. Last year, I worked with fellow disabled students to create a sustainable vegetable garden at our school that was accessible to others with disabilities. "
For example, you might write: “For the past 4 years, I’ve volunteered with my local hospice. Why would a healthy, athletic young woman want to volunteer with people who are dying? Because I, too, have faced death. I know what it’s like to be told you only have a few days to live. "
For example, suppose you’re writing an essay about rescuing an injured dog and how that made you decide to become a veterinarian. You might write: “I could smell him before I saw him. Small and frail, he limped toward me. His fur was matted and he trembled. His large eyes were full of fear. He pleaded with me for help. "
For example, you might write: “Nevertheless, she persisted. " I never really understood the meaning of that rallying cry until, at 14 years old, I stood in front of the principal of my school to speak on behalf of myself and other disabled students. "
Look into the background of the organization awarding the scholarship as well. Find out what the organization’s core values are and how you can best communicate that you embody those values. The organization’s website is a good place to start, but you might also search for any articles written about the organization. [9] X Expert Source Jake AdamsAcademic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.
For example, you might write: “My compassion for and special connection to animals spurred me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. " Then, in your essay, you would provide an instance that demonstrated your compassion and another that demonstrated that special connection. Your roadmap doesn’t necessarily have to be a “spoiler. " For example, if the prompt is to “discuss a book or experience that made you want to be a writer,” you might write: “While I’d always loved reading, I never considered writing stories myself until my 7th grade English teacher gave me a book for an extra-credit report. " In your essay, you would then go on to discuss the report and name the book. [11] X Research source
For example, if the prompt is to describe what sparked your interest in veterinary medicine, your thesis might be: “My experience rehabilitating stray dogs sparked my interest in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. "
Focus on standing out, not writing like everyone else. Although you can look at samples of other winning scholarship essays to get ideas, make sure the words in your essay are your own. Your own perspective is key. For example, if you’re a person of color, don’t try to “whitewash” your essay. Scholarship committees like diversity, so if you try to cover up your identity, you’re only hurting yourself.
For example, you might write: “I strive to demonstrate my passion for the environment every day. In my sophomore year, I started the recycling program at my school. As president of the environmental club, I teach fellow students what they can do to help save the world we live in. "
