How to Craft Your Essay for the Becky Jo Adams Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, organize your thoughts into four key material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on the experiences and influences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family, community, or significant events.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and dedication. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Articulate what you currently lack in your education and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be clear about your academic and career aspirations.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Think about what makes you unique and how that aligns with the scholarship’s goals.

Outline Your Essay

Your outline should have a clear structure that flows logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Follow with body paragraphs that each focus on one of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to your goals and the impact of receiving the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Open with a concrete moment or a vivid scene that illustrates your journey. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, focus on tangible experiences and reflections. Each paragraph should have a clear main idea that contributes to your overall narrative.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising to gain perspective. As you review your essay, ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph reflects on what you have learned and how you plan to use that knowledge. Look for areas where you can add more detail or clarity, and remove any redundant or irrelevant content.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls when writing your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Stay away from empty superlatives; instead, provide evidence to support your claims.
• Do not use passive voice when you can express your actions actively.
• Ensure that all facts and experiences you include are truthful and verifiable.