Now to the part of the scholarship application process that produces the most anxiety - essay writing! Many people have writers block when it comes to writing about themselves. Below are some tips to help you through the process:

• Be personal
• Be specific
• Outline your essay - clarify your thoughts
• Start in the "Middle" - write the main points of your essay first and follow up with your introduction and conclusion
• Take breaks - give yourself plenty of time, even days/weeks if possible
• Never exceed an essay's specified word count - follow directions and only include relevant information
• Have someone you trust proofread for you

Sponsors want to have a picture of who you are, not just that you need money. Spend some time writing your autobiographical essay. This "life story" can serve as the foundation for any and all essay questions you may be asked by sponsors. It is a great way to brainstorm and get your experiences and current direction down on paper. Bring more depth to your essay by writing about the impact life occurrences or circumstances have had on your outlook, passion for your field, dedication to education, and so on. Spending the time writing your life story will help solidify and strengthen your scholarship essays.

The Bellevue College Writing Lab offers free quarterly workshops that can help you in improving your writing skills. For additional information visit http://bellevuecollege.edu/writinglab/