How to Craft Your Essay for the Arlie Brown Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: Identify key experiences that have shaped your academic and personal journey. Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Quantify your achievements where possible, such as leadership roles, awards, or projects that had measurable impacts.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and career aspirations.
• Personality: Highlight your unique traits, values, and interests. Use anecdotes to illustrate who you are beyond your academic achievements.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. A strong essay typically includes:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey or aspirations. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on one idea. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and challenges, ensuring you reflect on what you learned and how it shaped your commitment to your goals.
3. Conclusion: Reinforce your main message and reflect on your future. Explain how the scholarship will enable you to make a positive impact in your field or community.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and a reflective tone. Use specific details and concrete examples to illustrate your points. Avoid clichés and ensure that every statement is backed by evidence from your experiences. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reinforces your main themes. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism. Consider how each part of your essay answers the “So what?” to emphasize your potential impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with vague or clichéd statements.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to engage the reader.
• Ensure your essay flows logically; use transitions to connect ideas.