How to Write an Essay for the Clasen Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your desire to pursue dentistry. Consider significant moments that influenced your career path.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics and specific outcomes to illustrate your contributions, such as leadership roles or projects that made a measurable impact.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any areas where you seek growth. Explain how the scholarship will help bridge these gaps in your education or experience, making you a more competent candidate in the field of dentistry.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and character. This can include challenges you’ve overcome or unique perspectives that inform your approach to dentistry.

Structuring Your Essay

Create an outline that logically organizes your thoughts. Each section should have a clear focus, guiding the reader through your narrative.

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that captures your journey. This should hook the committee’s attention immediately.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Use the STAR method to detail your achievements and the insights gained from your experiences.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making a positive impact in the field of dentistry. Emphasize how the scholarship will facilitate your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your role in the experiences you describe. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, use specific examples and metrics to support your claims. Ensure that your personality shines through, making your essay memorable.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections demonstrate personal growth and underscore the significance of your experiences. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of overused phrases and clichés that dilute your message.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is key.
• Ensure your essay maintains a coherent flow, with each paragraph transitioning smoothly to the next.