The Power of a Story: Tips on Writing Scholarship Essays

This allowed me to write a scholarship essay emphasizing the importance of participating in this program as an English major. I demonstrated my commitment as a student and showcased my genuine passion for English literature. It is vital to highlight in a scholarship essay how you, as a candidate, are the best fit for the opportunity based on your passions.

Tip 2: Connect Your Passions to Your Foundations

Next, connect these interests to your broader life goals or the foundations that keep you motivated. How do these passions fit into your overall ambitions? This might include your academic goals, personal growth, or career aspirations. Describe how pursuing these interests builds upon your existing knowledge and prepares you for future challenges. 

Example: Maymester Study Abroad (The Colonial Past of Indonesia) 

When I applied for a Maymester study abroad program in Indonesia, I emphasized my interest in postcolonial studies and how it related to my desire to study abroad in Indonesia. In my essay, I argued that Indonesia offers a unique perspective to understand the long-term effects of colonialism due to its history as a former Dutch colony. In my essay, I highlighted that Asian countries are often excluded from the discussion of colonization in my university's postcolonial curricula. Therefore, I aimed to broaden my understanding of colonialism by exploring a new region of the world and expanding my foundational knowledge on the subject of postcolonialism. This scholarship was impactful because it showcased that I still wanted to learn more, which leads perfectly to my next tip!

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