How to Write an Essay for the Community of Scholars Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material from the following four buckets:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your educational journey? Think about family influences, community involvement, or significant challenges you’ve overcome.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments. These could be academic, extracurricular, or community service-related. Include specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack that this scholarship could help you address. This might be financial support, specific skills, or opportunities that further education could provide.
• Personality: Highlight unique aspects of yourself. What values guide you? Include anecdotes that reveal your character and motivations.

Creating an Outline

Once you have gathered your material, organize it into a clear outline. Start with an engaging opening that draws the reader in. Then, structure your essay to flow logically through your background, achievements, the gap, and personality. Each section should build on the last, leading to a cohesive narrative.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid starting with clichés; instead, open with a specific moment or scene that encapsulates your journey. Ensure that each paragraph focuses on a single idea and transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear narrative flow.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, revisit your work with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major section. What insights have you gained? How do your experiences connect to your future goals? Ensure that your reflections are clear and impactful, reinforcing the significance of your journey.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements and empty passion. Be specific about your achievements and experiences.
• Don’t rely on bureaucratic language. Use clear, direct language to express your thoughts.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences. Authenticity is crucial in making a genuine connection with the committee.