How to Craft Your Essay for the Arete Alumni Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences, values, and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider significant moments that led you to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: Identify your key accomplishments, including academic successes, leadership roles, and community service. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any challenges or limitations you face and explain why further study at USF is essential for your personal and professional growth.
• Personality: Humanize your essay by sharing personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This will help the committee connect with you on a personal level.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline to structure your essay. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Then, organize your main points into a logical flow:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or vivid scene that illustrates your journey or aspirations.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you have learned and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals. Leave the reader with a lasting impression of your commitment to making a difference.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and focus on concrete examples that demonstrate your achievements and aspirations. Remember to reflect on your experiences and articulate why they matter. This will help answer the “So what?” question for the committee.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay critically, checking for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself if you effectively convey your motivations and how the scholarship aligns with your goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on unique experiences that set you apart.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to emphasize your role in your achievements.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is key to building trust with the committee.