Az Wells Foundation Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To build a strong foundation for your essay, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or pivotal moments that sparked your interest in further education.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment and capability. Use metrics where possible—such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours—to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth or improvement. Clearly articulate why receiving this scholarship is essential for your educational goals and how it will bridge the gap between your current situation and your aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Share moments that showcase your resilience, creativity, or dedication to your community.

Outlining Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures your reader's attention.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that each paragraph has a clear main idea and flows logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making a positive impact through your education.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and abstract statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, illustrate this with a specific example that reveals your enthusiasm. Remember to reflect on your experiences and explain why they matter to your future.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. When you return, ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Does your essay convey not just what you have done, but what you have learned and how you plan to use this knowledge? Ensure that your revisions enhance clarity and impact.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid vague statements about your passion without evidence.
• Steer clear of passive voice; keep your writing direct and engaging.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Refrain from using generic openers or filler phrases that do not add value to your essay.