Avoid These 10 Phrases In Your Scholarship Essay


Avoid These 10 Phrases In  Your Scholarship Essay

 

Did you know that every word counts when you sit down to write a scholarship essay?. The right words can showcase your personality, goals, and potential. However, the wrong ones can make your essay sound cliché, vague, or insincere. Scholarship committees read hundreds of applications, so stand out by writing an essay that is authentic and tells your story with all clarity.

 

Here are 10 phrases you should avoid to help you craft a strong application and what to use instead.

 

 

  1. “Since I was a child… ”

 

This phrase is too common and often leads to generic storytelling. Instead of starting with childhood memories, begin with a concrete moment that directly connects to your current goals.

 

 

  1.    “I am the perfect candidate because… ’’

 

Scholarship committees want to see humility and growth. Claiming perfection sounds arrogant. Replace it with: “My experiences in (specific field) have prepared me to contribute meaningfully to this program” .

 

 

  1. “I have always wanted to help people… ”

 

This sounds too broad, be specific about how you want to help and why.

For example: “Through studying public health, I aim to design community-based programs that address preventable diseases in underserved areas”.

 

 

  1. . “I deserve this scholarship”

 

You want to avoid entitlement.

Frame your application around impact: “This scholarship will equip me to (specific action) that benefits both my career and my community”.

 

 

  1.  “Ever since I can remember… ”

 

It’s  just a filler phrase that dilutes your essay. You want to jump straight into your story with vivid details or a powerful statement.

 

 

  1.  “I am a hardworking student”

 

Hard work is very important, but this claim is vague. Don’t just tell, Show! by giving relevant examples like: “Balancing a full course load with part-time work taught me how to manage competing priorities effectively”.

 

 

  1.  “I want to give back”

 

This is too common and general.  Give committees a clear vision of how you will contribute.

You can write: “I plan to return to my hometown to establish a STEM mentorship program for high school students”.

 

 

  1.  “I am passionate about… ”

 

Passion is so  good but this phrase is too common. Demonstrate passion through your actions, not declarations.

Instead of writing “I am passionate about technology” ;you can write: “I co-founded a coding club to introduce young girls to web development”.

 

 

  1. “I will try my best”

 

Scholarship committees want confidence, not hesitation.

Replace it with certainty: “I am committed to leveraging this opportunity to advance my career in (field)”.

 

 

  1.  “This scholarship will change my life”

 

It sounds selfish because it centers on you, not the scholarship’s mission.

You can write:“This opportunity will allow me to further my education and, in turn, address (specific problems) in my community” .

 

 

 

 

Avoiding these common phrases will make your writing stand out. Instead of leaning on clichés, tell your story through concrete experiences, measurable goals, and genuine reflections.

Scholarship committees aren’t just investing in your education,they’re investing in the impact you will  create.

 

 

After drafting your essay, read it aloud. If any sentence sounds like it could be in anyone’s essay, rewrite it with your personal story and unique details.

 

Post a Comment

To be published, comments must be reviewed by the administrator *

Previous Post Next Post