How to Craft Your Essay for the Deloitte & Touche Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Reflect on formative experiences that shaped your identity and aspirations. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments that showcase your skills and leadership. Use metrics to quantify your impact, such as projects completed, teams led, or initiatives started.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your knowledge or experience that further study will address. Be specific about how the scholarship will help you bridge these gaps.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This could include challenges you've overcome or moments that defined your commitment to your goals.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to create a logical flow. Consider the following outline:

1. Introduction: Start with a specific moment or anecdote that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they influenced your academic and career goals.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments, using the STAR method to illustrate your impact.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate the gaps in your current knowledge and how the scholarship will help you address these.
5. Personality: Share a personal story that reflects your values and commitment to your field.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations, emphasizing how the scholarship aligns with your goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions of passion. Instead, focus on concrete examples and the impact of your experiences. Each paragraph should center on one idea, ensuring clarity and coherence.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that you are not just recounting experiences but also reflecting on their significance and how they connect to your future goals. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with broad statements or clichés. Begin with a specific moment that draws the reader in.
• Steer clear of vague language or unsupported claims. Use concrete examples and data where possible.
• Don’t neglect the revision process. A polished essay is crucial for making a strong impression.