How to Craft Your Essay for the Dorothy Ball Greenlaw Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts using the four material buckets: background, achievements, gap, and personality.

• Background: Reflect on your personal history. What experiences have shaped your educational pursuits? Consider family influences, cultural background, or significant challenges.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments. Use metrics and specific outcomes to illustrate your impact, such as projects completed, leadership roles, or community service initiatives.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you lack in your current educational journey. How does this scholarship help bridge that gap? Be specific about your educational goals and how further study will enable you to achieve them.
• Personality: Humanize your essay with unique details that reflect your values and interests. What hobbies or passions define you? How do these aspects influence your academic and career aspirations?

Outlining Your Essay

Start with a clear outline. Each section should flow logically into the next. A suggested structure might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a compelling scene or moment that illustrates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss formative experiences that shaped your academic path.
3. Achievements: Highlight significant accomplishments with specific details.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational goals and how this scholarship will help you achieve them.
5. Personality: Share personal anecdotes that showcase your character and values.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making a positive impact.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, prioritize an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and general statements. Engage the reader with vivid descriptions and concrete examples. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea, ensuring clarity and coherence. Remember to reflect on the significance of your experiences—answer the “So what?” question in each section.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each section connects back to the scholarship's values and your personal narrative. Ask yourself if your essay effectively conveys your journey and aspirations. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you finalize your essay, be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid vague statements about your passions or goals; be specific.
• Steer clear of overused phrases and clichés that dilute your message.
• Ensure your essay is free from grammatical errors and typos.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is key.