How to Craft Your Essay for the Douglas and Margaret Lee Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, gather material across the four essential buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your early experiences with music. What inspired you to pursue this path? Consider family influences, significant events, or personal challenges.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments in music, such as performances, competitions, or leadership roles in ensembles. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., number of performances, awards received).
• The Gap: Identify what you feel is missing in your current education or experience that this scholarship could help address. Be specific about your educational goals and how they relate to your future in music.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values, resilience, and passion for music. Consider moments that have shaped who you are today.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay with a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene. Follow with sections dedicated to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude by summarizing your aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and concrete language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about music, describe a specific moment where your passion was ignited. Make sure to reflect on how these experiences have prepared you for future challenges and opportunities.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your essay not only tells your story but also demonstrates why it matters to the committee. Seek feedback from mentors or peers who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice and overly complex language.
• Ensure each paragraph has a clear purpose and contributes to the overall narrative.