How to Craft Your Essay for the DW Simpson Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Reflect on your personal and educational journey. What experiences have shaped your interest in actuarial science? Consider family influences, educational milestones, or pivotal moments that sparked your passion.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. This could include academic achievements, projects, internships, or leadership roles. Quantify your impact where possible—mention specific metrics or outcomes.
• The Gap: Acknowledge any gaps in your experience or knowledge that further study would address. Explain why this scholarship is essential for your academic and professional growth in actuarial science.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that reflect your values and character. Share anecdotes that illustrate your resilience, determination, or unique perspective.

Outline Your Essay

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that captures your journey or motivation. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Ensure each section transitions smoothly, maintaining a logical progression.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals. Reiterate your commitment to making a positive impact in the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, using specific examples to illustrate your points. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying you are passionate about actuarial science, demonstrate it through your experiences and aspirations. Ensure that your writing reflects clarity and purpose.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point you make. Ensure that you reflect on what you learned from your experiences and why they matter in the context of your future goals. This reflection adds depth and relevance to your narrative.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichéd phrases or generic statements.
• Do not invent facts or embellish your experiences; authenticity is crucial.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to engage the reader.
• Ensure each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to your overall narrative.