How to Write Your Essay for the Donna and Harry Kornbaum Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. Consider your upbringing, influences, and experiences that have shaped your educational path. What challenges have you faced, and how have they informed your goals?
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use metrics where possible—grades, leadership roles, community service hours, etc. What responsibilities have you undertaken, and what outcomes have resulted from your efforts?
• The Gap: Assess what you currently lack that further education can provide. This could be specific knowledge, skills, or experiences that will enhance your ability to contribute to your field or community.
• Personality: Humanize your essay by sharing personal anecdotes that illustrate your values and character. What motivates you? What unique perspectives do you bring?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Each section of your essay should have a purpose:

1. Introduction: Start with an engaging moment or scene that draws the reader in. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to a specific theme—background, achievements, gap, and personality. Ensure each paragraph transitions logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals and make a broader impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your actions and insights. Use specific details to illustrate your points, avoiding vague language. Each paragraph should present one main idea, supported by concrete examples. Engage the reader by reflecting on your experiences and their significance.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, revisit your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each main point. Ensure that every section reflects not just what you have done, but why it matters. Clarify how your experiences and aspirations align with the goals of the scholarship.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Steer clear of clichés and vague statements that do not provide insight into your character or motivations. Avoid passive voice and bureaucratic language that can dilute your message. Lastly, ensure all details are accurate and verifiable; do not invent facts or embellish experiences.