How to Write Your Essay for the Doherty/O’Sullivan Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organizing your thoughts into four material buckets will help structure your essay:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing, education, and any experiences that have shaped your perspective. Consider how these experiences have influenced your academic journey.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use metrics where possible—such as grades, awards, or leadership roles—to quantify your impact.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth through further education. Explain what skills or knowledge you lack and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Include personal anecdotes or stories that reveal your values, character, and motivations. This is your opportunity to humanize your application.

Crafting Your Outline

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. Start with a compelling opening that draws the reader in, perhaps by describing a pivotal moment in your educational journey. Organize your essay to flow logically through your background, achievements, the gap, and your personality. Ensure each section transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear narrative thread.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid vague statements or clichés; instead, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your points. Each paragraph should center around a single idea, leading the reader through your narrative with clarity and purpose. Remember to reflect on the significance of your experiences—answer the “So what?” question in each section.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your first draft, take a step back and review your work. Look for areas where you can deepen your reflections or add specificity. Ensure that each section contributes meaningfully to your overall message. Consider seeking feedback from trusted peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of several common pitfalls: avoid using clichéd phrases, such as “I have always been passionate about.” Ensure that all facts and figures are accurate and verifiable. Steer clear of passive voice and bureaucratic language; instead, focus on direct, engaging prose that highlights your unique voice and experiences.