How to Write Your Essay for the First National Bank Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by reflecting on four key areas:

• Background: Consider your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your educational aspirations. Think about significant moments that influenced your decision to pursue further education.
• Achievements: Identify your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Quantify your achievements where possible—e.g., GPA, awards, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your educational journey and how this scholarship can help bridge that gap. Be specific about your academic or financial needs and how further study will benefit you.
• Personality: Highlight personal traits that make you a strong candidate. Include anecdotes that demonstrate your values, resilience, and commitment to your community or field of interest.

Outlining Your Essay

Once you have gathered your material, create an outline. Structure your essay with a clear beginning, middle, and end:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or anecdote that hooks the reader. Avoid generic statements.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section flows logically to the next, using transitions that highlight your journey.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on what you have learned and how you plan to use this scholarship to make a positive impact in your community or field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice. Use specific examples and avoid vague statements. When discussing your achievements or background, focus on tangible outcomes and lessons learned. Each paragraph should center on a single idea, clearly articulated and supported by evidence.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. When you return, read through your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each major point. Ensure that your reflections demonstrate your growth and the significance of your experiences. This will help convey your commitment to your academic and career goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that fail to provide insight into your unique journey.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists; this weakens your narrative.
• Steer clear of excessive jargon or bureaucratic language that obscures your message.
• Ensure all facts and experiences mentioned are truthful and verifiable.