Crafting Your Essay for the Dr. Gloria M. Hewlett Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing and formative experiences. What challenges have you faced? How have these shaped your perspective and goals?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic, professional, and extracurricular life. Quantify these where possible—mention leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Consider what you still need to achieve your goals. Why is further study essential? How will this scholarship help you bridge that gap?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reveal your values and character. What drives you? What unique perspectives do you bring?

Creating a Compelling Outline

Structure your essay logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or story. Follow with sections that address each of your four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Conclude with a strong closing that reinforces your commitment to making an impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, prioritize an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements; instead, provide concrete examples that demonstrate your points. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, leading smoothly to the next. Remember to reflect on your experiences—what did you learn, and why does it matter?

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising. Read your essay critically: does it effectively convey your story? Ensure every section answers the “So what?” question. What does your experience mean for your future? How does it connect to the scholarship's goals?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of clichés and generic statements. Avoid starting with phrases like “From a young age” or “I have always been passionate about.” Instead, focus on specific moments that illustrate your journey. Additionally, steer clear of passive voice and overly bureaucratic language; clarity and personal voice are key to engaging the committee.