Navigating the Scholarship Essay: How to tell your story

Rebeca, who earned her degree in broadcast journalism from California State University, Fullerton, has always been dedicated to serving the Latino immigrant community. Her college years were marked by numerous achievements, including producing the award-winning Spanish-language newscast Al Día and interning at Telemundo 52, which allowed her to pursue her dream of amplifying Latino voices in media. Today, she continues her work as an Account Executive at Bravo Story, utilizing her skills in journalism and ethnic studies to connect with diverse communities.

As a scholarship recipient, Rebeca offered valuable advice to students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, on how to approach scholarship applications. One key point she emphasized was the importance of sharing an authentic story. “Find your story, identify what makes it unique, and develop it,” she advised. “Ask your friends to review it and ensure it has an impact. What makes your experience stand out? What skills or challenges can you highlight that demonstrate what makes you exceptional?”

For Rebeca, her story was shaped by her upbringing. She recalled the sounds of the Spanish-language channel filling her home every morning before school and every weeknight. Growing up with undocumented parents, it was very important for her parents to stay informed, furthermore, most of her community including family and neighbors relied on Spanish language broadcast news to get the latest on immigration reform and immigrant rights. When she secured an internship at the very news station she had grown up watching, it felt like a monumental achievement. It wasn’t just a personal milestone; it was a way to give back to her community. 

The Importance of Authenticity

Rebeca stressed the importance of showing empathy towards the scholarship’s mission and its committee, understanding who has benefited from the scholarship and why you should too. “Scholarship committees are often looking for students who have overcome challenges and are determined to contribute meaningfully to their communities,” she explained. “As a Latina, sharing how your identity shapes your perspective and your goals can make a significant impact.”She also emphasized the value of resilience, a trait many students can relate to, particularly in the face of adversity. 

Step 1: Build Your Story Arc 

A well-structured story arc is essential for maintaining audience engagement and enhancing your storytelling skills. In a story arc, you introduce a situation, followed by a series of events that build tension, leading to a climax—the pivotal moment of conflict. This is followed by a falling action, which gradually resolves the tension, and culminates in a conclusion or resolution.

Essentially, you, as the protagonist, are presented with a challenge. The audience should be able to follow the progression of the situation, experiencing the conflict, the effort to overcome it, and ultimately, the outcome. A clear and well-paced arc helps guide the audience through this journey, ensuring a cohesive and satisfying narrative.

Step 2: Share Your Essay with your Peers and Professors 

Proofreading your essay will result in a solid essay however Rebeca emphasized that a story can always always benefit from an editor, those editors could be friends, peers, or professors. Her experiences with mentors, both peers and professionals, were also crucial in her success. “Some of my biggest mentors were my peers during college,” she explained. “We understood each other’s struggles and helped each other through the challenges of being a first-generation student.”

Conclusion: The Road to Success

Her advice is clear: be authentic in telling your story and practice your storytelling, it can take you a long way. 

For students looking to succeed in the scholarship process, Rebeca’s story serves as a testament to the importance of authenticity, hard work, and the support of a strong community.