How to Write an Essay for the Baumhart Center Schreiber Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions. Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant life events.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and leadership. Use metrics and outcomes to provide evidence of your impact, such as projects completed, initiatives led, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack in your education or experience and articulate how the scholarship will bridge that gap. Be clear about your academic and professional aspirations and how this scholarship aligns with them.
• Personality: Think about what makes you unique. Include personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This adds depth to your essay and helps the committee see you as a whole person.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline is essential for clarity. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a pivotal moment from your life. Follow this with sections that cover each of the four material buckets. Ensure each section flows logically to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the impact this scholarship will have on your journey.

Drafting Voice and Style

Your writing should be active and engaging. Avoid passive constructions and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I was involved in a project,” specify, “I led a project that resulted in a 20% increase in community engagement.” Use reflective language to convey what you learned from your experiences and why they matter. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, explaining the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. This will give you fresh eyes. Focus on clarity and coherence, ensuring each paragraph serves a clear purpose. Ask yourself if each section answers the “So what?” question. If it doesn’t, revise it to clarify its relevance to your overall narrative. Consider seeking feedback from mentors or peers to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Avoid clichéd openers and filler phrases. Start with a specific moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of vague statements about your passion; instead, provide concrete examples that demonstrate your commitment.
• Do not use bureaucratic language or passive voice. Keep your writing direct and personal.
• Lastly, ensure all facts are accurate and verifiable. Avoid embellishing your experiences or achievements.