How to Craft Your Essay for the COAES Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and experiences that have shaped your interest in agriculture and human sciences. Consider specific moments that sparked your passion.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. Include leadership roles, projects, or initiatives where you had a measurable impact.
• The Gap: Identify any gaps in your experience or education that the scholarship will help you address. Explain why further study is essential for your personal and professional growth.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, motivations, and character. This will humanize your essay and create a connection with the committee.

Outlining Your Essay

Structure your essay logically, ensuring each paragraph serves a distinct purpose. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey or passion.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they led you to pursue this field.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment and capability.
4. The Gap: Articulate what you hope to gain from the scholarship and how it will help you overcome your current limitations.
5. Personality: Infuse your narrative with personal stories that illustrate your values and aspirations.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making an impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and be specific in your descriptions. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about agriculture, describe a specific experience that ignited your interest. Use metrics and details to substantiate your claims, ensuring your essay is grounded in reality.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity and coherence in your narrative. Each section should answer the question, “So what?”—explain why your experiences matter and how they connect to your future goals. Ensure that your essay flows logically and that each paragraph transitions smoothly into the next.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not fabricate experiences or accomplishments; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of overly complex language that obscures your message.
• Ensure your essay aligns with the scholarship’s focus on agriculture and human sciences.