How to Write a Compelling CESDA Diversity Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a strong essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including cultural, social, and economic factors that have shaped your identity. Consider significant moments that influenced your educational journey.
• Achievements: Document your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Highlight leadership roles, community service, or academic successes that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education or experiences that further study at CESDA can address. Be specific about how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. Consider anecdotes that illustrate your character and resilience.

Outline Your Essay Structure

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

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling in-scene moment or anecdote that draws the reader in.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and transitions smoothly to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you have learned from your experiences and how you plan to apply those insights in the future, particularly at CESDA.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and achievements. Avoid bureaucratic language and focus on clarity and specificity. Each paragraph should present one idea clearly, demonstrating your thought process and insights. Ensure that you answer the “So what?” question, explaining why your experiences matter and how they connect to your future goals.

Revision and “So What?” Reflection

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, looking for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ask yourself if each section effectively communicates your message. Ensure that you have adequately reflected on your experiences and their significance in your life and future.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Do not rely on vague expressions of passion without providing concrete examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always identify the actor in your sentences.
• Ensure all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable; do not invent details.