How to Craft Your Essay for the Drucilla Eberhart George Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a well-rounded essay, explore the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on the experiences that have shaped you. Consider family influences, educational experiences, and community involvement. What moments stand out as pivotal in your journey?
• Achievements: List your significant accomplishments, both academically and personally. Use metrics where possible, such as grades, leadership roles, or community service hours, to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you lack in your current skill set or knowledge base that the scholarship will help you address. Be specific about how further study at Tarleton State University will bridge this gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and character. This is your chance to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Creating Your Outline

Once you have gathered your materials, create an outline for your essay. Organize your thoughts logically, ensuring each section flows into the next. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling scene or moment that illustrates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that demonstrate your readiness for this scholarship.
4. The Gap: Explain what you aim to achieve through further education.
5. Personality: Conclude with reflections that tie your experiences to your future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés; instead, focus on concrete details and personal insights. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, supported by evidence and reflection. Remember to answer the “So what?” question after each major point to highlight its significance.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your draft, take a break before revising. Read your essay with fresh eyes, focusing on clarity, coherence, and engagement. Ensure that every section contributes to your overall narrative and that your reflections resonate with the scholarship committee. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain additional perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your actions.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Keep your writing focused and concise; avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences.