Crafting Your Essay for the Follansbee-Hansen Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, values, and experiences that have shaped your identity and perspective related to LGBTQ+ issues. What moments stand out?
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments, whether academic, extracurricular, or community-focused. Use metrics or outcomes to demonstrate impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of knowledge or experience and explain how this scholarship will help you bridge that gap. Why is further study essential for your growth?
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes and reflections that showcase your character. What drives you? What unique perspectives do you bring?

Outlining Your Essay

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

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that highlights your connection to the scholarship's mission.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each section has a clear focus and transitions smoothly into the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and how the scholarship will empower you to make a meaningful impact in the community.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, maintain an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and generalizations. Instead of stating, “I am passionate about helping others,” illustrate this passion through specific examples of your work or initiatives. Ensure your writing is reflective, answering the “So what?” for each section.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, revisit each section with a critical eye. Ask yourself if each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative and whether it answers the prompt effectively. Seek feedback from peers or mentors who can provide constructive criticism. Focus on clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

As you refine your essay, be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements and empty passion. Always back up your claims with specific examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice; use active constructions to convey your agency.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship applications.
• Refrain from using clichés or generic phrases that do not add value to your narrative.