college 101
college essays
The Weight of Words
by Brittany Hamilton
Scholarship application essays
can make or break a student’s chances at earning funds.
Follow these techniques and tips to create a polished piece that will get attention.
Graduation is just around the corner, and many high school
juniors and seniors are already preparing their college
applications. Many colleges don’t require handwritten work for
admission, but students who apply for scholarships are usually
required to write and submit an essay.
“The number one reason why students don’t apply for
scholarships is they don’t have enough time to complete the
essay,” said James Tindell, College Advisor for Auburn High
School. “Working on two essays for your admission and
scholarship portfolio is the key to streamlining your application
process.”
When it comes to topic, personal experiences that have impacted
students are best. For instance, an ordinary essay about a
summer fishing trip with Grandpa most likely won’t catch the
interest of scholarship reviewers if it’s told only on the basis of
what happened and whether or not the trip was enjoyable.
The story needs to contain a certain level of significance to
the student. They should explain why the trip was special and
memorable, as well as discuss whether or not the experience
affected them in a positive or negative way.
Detail is another important element of an interesting, successful
essay. The story should have clear descriptions of places, colors,
smells and emotions.
Quick Tips
Mr. Tindell’s Top Tips:
“Set yourself apart with a thoughtfully crafted, well-polished
essay that shows how something changed your life in a
significant and personal way,” said Tindell.
1. Show that you have perspective – Most kids don’t have a
hard-knock life; write about something you are passionate
about.
2. Know your audience and tweak your essay accordingly.
3. Make sure you are the hero of the story.
4. Don’t be afraid to show you’re not perfect – Authenticity is
key!
5. Have at least two adults proofread your work.
“Essays succeed or fail
”
in the details.
— Arun Ponnusamy
• Write your essay from a personal standpoint.
• Grammar and word choice are highly important!
• ell a story. The key to an interesting topic is
T
significance rather than extravagance. Why is
your story/experience important to you, and what
valuable lessons did you learn? How does this
story/experience make you the person you are
today?
• ype the essay in Times New Roman size 12,
T
unless instructed otherwise.
• on’t forget to include vivid descriptions, but
D
don’t go overboard.
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• Try to keep your essay between 300-500 words.
When considering students for scholarships,
colleges pay close attention to grades, test scores,
and transcripts, but the application essays allow
them to learn more about the students as people,
and this is where you can stand out.
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