How to Write Your Essay for the Dr. Magdalena de la Teja Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on significant experiences that shaped who you are today. Consider family influences, educational experiences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on metrics and outcomes. What projects have you led? What responsibilities have you undertaken? Include specific details.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current education or experience and how this scholarship will help you bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What motivates you? What unique perspectives do you bring?

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and coherence. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that captures your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences and how they have shaped your aspirations.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their impact, using specific examples.
4. The Gap: Clearly articulate your educational or professional gap and how the scholarship will facilitate your growth.
5. Personality: Share personal insights or stories that illustrate your values and commitment to making a difference.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your future ambitions, tying back to the scholarship’s purpose.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice and be specific. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying, “I have always been passionate about helping others,” provide a concrete example of how you have done so. Ensure each paragraph focuses on a single idea, transitioning smoothly to the next to maintain logical flow.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Does your essay reflect personal growth and insight? Ensure that your reflections answer the prompt and highlight your readiness for the opportunities this scholarship will provide. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not exaggerate or invent experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions.
• Ensure your essay adheres to any word count or formatting guidelines provided by the scholarship.