How to Write Your Essay for the Betty Beland Memorial Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Consider family influences, community involvement, or challenges you've faced.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Include metrics or specific outcomes—such as grades, leadership roles, or projects that had a significant impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or skills that further study will address. Be honest about your needs and articulate how this scholarship will bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. What motivates you? What are your passions? Specific anecdotes can help paint a vivid picture.

Outlining Your Essay

Structuring your essay is crucial for clarity. Consider a simple outline:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that encapsulates your journey or motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your growth and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact with the help of this scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on specific details. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always wanted to help others,” provide a specific example of a time when you made a difference in someone’s life. This approach will make your essay more engaging and authentic.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences connect to your future goals? Ensure that every paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative that aligns with the scholarship’s purpose.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Do not rely on empty superlatives; instead, provide evidence of your achievements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active voice to highlight your role in your experiences.
• Do not fabricate details or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key.