Writing a letter of recommendation for a friend's scholarship.?

I once worked for her in a salon, but now she's trying for a scholarship in a nursing program. I've never written a recommendation. Does anyone have any experience with this?

I would structure it sort of like this:

Paragraph 1:
Introduction (why are you writing)

I am writing to recommend Mary Ellen Robinson for the Evans Memorial Nursing Scholarship at Virginia State University.

Paragraph 2: (How do you know her, and what do you know about her)

I have known Mary Ellen for seven years. For two years she was my supervisor at My Hair and Nails Salon in Trimble City, VA. She is... (now insert a lot of wonderful traits that you observed in her as you worked together. She is one of the hardest working people I've ever met. Rarely missed a day of work. Extremely patient with co-workers and clients. Unfailingly cheerful with a smile for everyone. Led the group in productivity. Showed attention to detail, rarely making errors. That sort of thing.)

Paragraph 3:
(why you think she is a strong candidate)

Mary Ellen often mentioned her dream of becoming a nurse (add more detail if you know... why does she want to be a nurse, so she could help people? was she inspired by a nursing mentor? a sick parent?). I am confident that she will be successful because (list a few qualities that she has that would make her a good nurse/student. If she was an outstanding student in school you could mention that too). I would strongly encourage you to consider her for this scholarship. She will be a credit to your program and a fine example for future students.

I hope this helps!