E Student 360 is dedicated to providing valuable tips and insights on scholarships, college life, study skills, career advice, and student wellness. Writing a winning scholarship application essay can be a daunting task, but the key is to showcase your individuality. Here are some tips based on the experience of Barley Dropp, winner of the 2012 AS Leadership Scholarship, to help you get started:
- Understand the essay statement and identify the key themes. Make sure your essay is aligned with the scholarship’s theme by highlighting the key themes and addressing them in your essay. See Mastering Scholarship Essays: Comprehending Prompts, Incorporating Personal Stories, and Crafting Stand-Out Applications for more.
- Understand the meaning of the key themes and bring depth to your understanding. Research and understand the concepts behind the themes to bring insight and depth to your essay.
- Use keywords and synonyms of keywords used in the scholarship statement throughout your essay. This will demonstrate your commitment to addressing the question being asked and will also help your essay to stand out.
- Start your essay with an engaging opening, such as a quote or statement that relates to your intended course. Make a strong first impression by starting your essay with a quote or statement that captures the reader’s attention.
- Understand the criteria used by the scholarship committee to evaluate application essays. Familiarize yourself with the criteria that the scholarship committee will use to evaluate the essays and tailor your essay to their expectations.
- Tailor your essay to the specific scholarship organization or program you are applying for. Research the scholarship organization or program, understand their mission and focus, and align your essay with their objectives.
- Stand out from the competition by highlighting unique experiences, skills, or achievements. Highlight any unique experiences, skills, or achievements that set you apart from other applicants.
- Proofread and edit your essay before submitting it. Make sure to proofread and edit your essay before submitting it to avoid grammar and spelling errors.
- Research scholarships and where to find them. Take the time to research scholarships that align with your academic and personal goals. Utilise online resources such as The National Scholarship Clearinghouse, educational organisations, and associations, and speak with your school’s financial aid office to find scholarships that are a good fit for you.
- Send a follow-up email or note after submitting your application. After submitting your application, consider sending a follow-up email or note to express your continued interest in the scholarship and to inquire about the status of your application.
- Don’t give up if you are not successful the first time. Applying for scholarships can be a competitive process and you may not be successful the first time. Learn from your mistakes and use the feedback to improve your application for next time.
In conclusion, writing a winning scholarship application essay takes time and effort, but by following these tips and showcasing your individuality, you can increase your chances of success. Remember, E Student 360 is here to support you on your journey to unlocking your academic potential. So, take the time to research, tailor your essay to the scholarship you are applying for, and make sure it stands out from the competition. Good luck!
