How to Write a Compelling Essay for the Change of Heart Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider experiences that have shaped your worldview. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your educational goals?
• Achievements: List measurable accomplishments. Include specific metrics, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours, that demonstrate your commitment and impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. What knowledge or skills do you lack that this scholarship and further study will help you acquire?
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that showcase your values and character. What makes you unique, and how do these traits drive your educational and career aspirations?

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in, perhaps through a personal story or a pivotal moment. Follow with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a subject, provide specific examples of how you have engaged with that subject. Reflect on what you learned from each experience and why it matters for your future.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity and coherence. Ask yourself: “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and reinforces why you are a deserving candidate for the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Steer clear of common mistakes such as:

• Using generic phrases or clichés that do not add value to your narrative.
• Failing to provide specific examples that support your claims.
• Neglecting to proofread for grammar and clarity.
• Overly complex language that obscures your message.