How to Write for Scholarships
Writing for scholarships (including statements and essays) can be kind of a pain. There are countless scholarships and each has their own requirements and essay grading criteria. But if you put the work in and take the time to really rock it, there could be tons of money in it for you. Here are some tips that’ll help you nail writing for scholarships.
Write About Things You’re Involved With
Clubs, athletics, and volunteer work—any organized activity you do outside your schoolwork is fair game. It shows that you’re well-rounded and dedicated to not just your studies, but a bunch of other cool stuff.
Write About Obstacles You’ve Overcome
Write about where you come from and how got to where you are now. “Perseverance in the face of adversity” is a phrase people like, so show how you’ve displayed perseverance in your life.
Talk About What You’ll Do with Your Education
Give them a reason to give you money. Show the scholarship-granter that the money they invest in you will be well spent.
Keep It Short and Dense
Like brownie. It’s delicious and satisfying and it doesn’t take too long to eat. Do the same with your writing. Just don’t eat it.
Write Multiple Drafts
Your best essay will likely not be your first one. So rewrite a couple of times. You’ll find errors to fix and better ways to word things.
Get a Second Opinion
Get your friends, teachers, parents, older siblings, pets, etc. to read your writing and provide their opinion. They might have an insight or two that you hadn’t thought of.
Toot Your Own Horn
Brag! This is your time to sell yourself to the scholarship-granter. Prove to them that you’re a good investment and you’ll put their money to good use.