Crafting Your Essay for the Bishop Henry L. Barnwell Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets to ensure a well-rounded essay:

• Background: Consider experiences that shaped your identity and values. What personal or community challenges have you faced? How have these experiences influenced your educational journey?
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to your education and community. Use metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours, to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack that further education will help you achieve. Why is this scholarship crucial for your academic and professional aspirations?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes or reflections that reveal your character. What unique perspectives do you bring to the scholarship committee?

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay with a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene, followed by body paragraphs that explore each of the four buckets. Conclude by reflecting on how this scholarship will empower you to achieve your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice to convey your agency and responsibility. Avoid clichés and vague statements; instead, use specific examples and details. Begin with a compelling moment or story that draws the reader in. Reflect on what you learned from your experiences and articulate why they matter in the context of your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself: What is the significance of each experience I described? Ensure that every paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative that answers the question, “Why should I be awarded this scholarship?”

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés; instead, open with a specific moment.
• Steer clear of vague claims about passion or goals without concrete evidence.
• Do not use passive voice; ensure your writing reflects your active role in your achievements.
• Refrain from including invented facts or embellishments about your background.