How to Craft Your Essay for the Dao Jensen/Nhan To Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Think about your life experiences that shaped your educational journey. What challenges have you faced, and how have they influenced your aspirations?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, both academically and in extracurricular activities. Use specific metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or knowledge that further study will address. Explain how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Include personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What makes you unique, and how do these traits contribute to your goals?

Outline Your Essay Structure

Create a clear outline that organizes your thoughts logically. Each section should focus on a single idea:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your commitment to making an impact. Answer the “So what?” question—why does your story matter?

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your actions and decisions. Use specific examples and details to illustrate your points. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, provide evidence of your passion and commitment through real experiences. Aim for clarity and conciseness in your writing.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Reread your essay with fresh eyes, looking for clarity and coherence. Ensure that each section reinforces your main message. Ask yourself what changed in you through your experiences and why it matters to the committee. Strengthen your reflections to enhance the impact of your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichés or overly broad statements.
• Do not rely on empty superlatives; instead, support your claims with concrete examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in your achievements.
• Do not fabricate experiences or details; authenticity is crucial.