Dr Barry B Thompson Theatre Scholarship Essay Guide

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key material buckets:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your interest in theatre? Consider family influences, educational experiences, or pivotal moments that ignited your passion.
• Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments in theatre. Include specific roles, projects, or awards, and quantify your impact where possible (e.g., number of performances, audience size, or community involvement).
• The Gap: Reflect on what you feel is missing in your current knowledge or skills that further study will address. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character. Share values, interests, and motivations that make you a unique candidate.

Creating an Outline

Draft an outline based on your brainstormed material. Aim for a clear structure that guides the reader through your narrative. Start with an engaging introduction that sets the scene or presents a compelling moment from your theatre journey. Follow with sections that delve into each of the four material buckets, ensuring each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you write, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Use specific details to illustrate your points, avoiding vague statements. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, supported by evidence from your experiences. Aim to show rather than tell; for instance, instead of stating your passion for theatre, describe a moment on stage that encapsulates that passion.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that your reflections convey not only what you did but also what you learned and how it will impact your future. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and be open to constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and generic statements that can dilute your message. Avoid passive voice and bureaucratic language that can obscure your voice. Ensure that every claim you make is backed by specific examples or data, steering clear of vague assertions about your passion or commitment.