How to Write Your Ethel Curry Scholarship Essay

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

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

• Background: Reflect on your cultural heritage, upbringing, and any challenges you faced. What experiences have shaped your identity as an American Indian leader?
• Achievements: List your accomplishments, focusing on measurable outcomes. Include leadership roles, community service, or academic success that demonstrate your commitment to your community.
• The Gap: Identify areas where you seek growth. What skills or knowledge do you wish to gain through further education? Be specific about how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This will help the committee connect with you on a human level.

Creating an Outline

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

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your cultural heritage and formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight significant accomplishments that reflect your leadership and commitment.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational and professional aspirations and how the scholarship will support them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making a positive impact in your community.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice and specific language throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about a topic, describe a specific instance that illustrates your dedication. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, with clear transitions to guide the reader.

Revision and Reflection: The “So What?” Factor

After drafting your essay, take a break before revising. When you return, read through your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” after each section. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to a coherent narrative that answers the scholarship's core questions about your leadership and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Do not include unverified facts or embellishments about your experiences.
• Steer clear of passive voice; keep your writing active and engaging.
• Ensure your essay maintains a clear focus and logical flow throughout.