Personal essays should always be typed unless directions specifically require they be written by hand.
A good personal essay can make or break your chance at winning free scholarship money. With stakes like that, it is important to spend some time perfecting your essay. Scholarships are generally awarded for academic performance, performance of a particular skill like athletics or band, or academic interests in a particular field. Concentrate on the focus of the scholarship theme, develop your thesis and plan what you will write in your personal essay.
Be Clear
Plan and write your personal essay with the given topic in mind. Develop a thesis -- one statement that responds to the presented question or topic -- and write toward expressing it. Make an outline to keep your essay clear and concise. Structure the essay to have a beginning, middle and ending. Be sure to follow the essay guidelines like word count, spacing and other formatting rules. Getting one of these rules wrong might cost you the scholarship.
Be Passionate
The best way to set yourself apart from other scholarship candidates is for your passion to show through in your essay. Your passion for the topic is something that cannot be duplicated. Likewise, you cannot create passion that does not exist. Tell why you want or need to receive the scholarship. Be genuine in expressing your feelings about the essay topic, and your personality and passion will grab the attention of the scholarship selection committee.
Be Proud
A personal scholarship essay is not the place for modesty. Write proudly about your accomplishments and how they relate to the scholarship for which you are applying. In addition to mentioning any special recognitions or honors you have earned, be sure to discuss any projects and coursework you have completed that are relevant to the scholarship. If the essay's word count permits, discuss the processes of the project and its impact on you personally.
Be Correct
Nothing ruins a good, well-thought essay like typographical or grammatical errors. Grammar and spelling must be perfect. If you have doubts about either, ask a trusted friend or teacher to proofread your essay. Many scholarship essays must follow specific formatting requirements, too. Pay close attention to details regarding essay margins, line spacing, paragraph formatting, font style and size. If a font is not listed, opt for a traditional one like Arial or Times New Roman.
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