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.
- “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.
- “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” .
- “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”.
- . “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”.
- “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.
- “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”.
- “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”.
- “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”.
- “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)”.
- “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.
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