Winning scholarships like the Nancy Etz Scholarship, can help you pay for college. However, writing essays that stand out from the rest of the competition is not easy. Many students submit essays that are poorly written or do not adhere to the instructions given. In order to increase your chances of winning a scholarship, follow these tips for writing essays that shine!
Start By Brainstorming Topics That Are Interesting To You And Reflect Your Unique Experiences And Viewpoints
When you’re starting out, your topic selection must reflect what is interesting and unique about yourself. This will make for topics with which the readers can engage because they identify as well or even better than those contestants on “American Idol.” But, you don’t have to be a world-famous author or celebrity to have interesting experiences. You just need to be honest and reflect on what is special about your life and how it has changed you.
Additionally, Start With A Strong Thesis Statement That Captures Your Main Point
Your thesis statement should be the main point of your essay. It should be clear and concise, and it should capture the main idea of your essay. For example, if you are writing about your experience as a first-generation college student, your thesis statement could be “I am a first-generation college student and I have overcome many obstacles to get where I am today.”
Support Your Thesis With Evidence And Examples
Once you have a strong thesis statement, you need to support it with evidence and examples. In your essay, share stories or personal experiences that illustrate why you deserve to win the scholarship. For example, if you are writing about financial need, you could discuss how you have had to work multiple jobs to pay for college.
Write In A Clear, Concise, And Organized Manner
Your essay should be easy to read and understand. Use short sentences and simple words. Be sure to organize your thoughts in a logical manner.
Edit And Revise Your Essay For Grammar Mistakes And Clarity
According to Nancy Etz, once you have written your essay, it is important to edit and revise it for grammar mistakes and clarity. Have someone else read your essay to see if they can understand your point. Make sure your essay flows smoothly from beginning to end.
Make Sure Your Essay Is Well-Written And Error-Free
Your essay should be well-written and error-free. This means checking for spelling and grammatical errors, as well as ensuring that your essay is free of typos. Be sure to proofread your essay before you submit it.
Ask Teachers, Family Members, Or Friends To Read Your Essays And Provide Feedback
If you are having trouble writing your essays, Nancy Etz suggests, asking a teacher, family member, or friend to read the essay and provide feedback. It can be helpful to get an outside perspective on your work.
Proofread Your Essays One More Time Before Submitting
Once you have edited and revised your essays, proofread them one more time before submitting them. This will help ensure that your essays are error-free and ready to be submitted.
Follow The Scholarship Application Instructions To The Letter
According to Nancy Etz, it is important that you follow the scholarship application instructions exactly. Many students are disqualified because they do not follow the instructions. For example, if the application asks for a 500-word essay, do not submit a 1000-word essay. Make sure you adhere to all of the guidelines in order to give yourself the best chance of winning.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of writing a scholarship-winning essay! Remember to start with a strong thesis statement, support your thesis with evidence and examples, and write in a clear, concise, and organized manner. Edit and revise your essay for grammar mistakes and clarity, and make sure your essay is well-written and error-free. Finally, follow the scholarship application instructions to the letter. By following these tips, you will be on your way to writing an essay that shines!