How to Craft Your Essay for the Gilbert H. Berken Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Your essay should reflect four key areas: background, achievements, the gap, and personality. Use these buckets to organize your thoughts:

• Background: Reflect on experiences that have shaped your educational and career goals. Consider family influences, community involvement, or significant challenges you have overcome.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your skills and commitment. Use metrics or outcomes to quantify your impact, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Analyze what you currently lack in your educational journey and how the scholarship will help bridge that gap. Be honest about your needs and articulate your future goals.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. Consider how your unique perspective can contribute to the Nova Southeastern University community.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you organize your ideas logically. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in with a specific moment or story. Follow with body paragraphs that explore each of the four buckets in detail. Conclude with a strong closing that reiterates your commitment to making a positive impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, maintain an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on specific examples and reflections that demonstrate your growth and insights. Each paragraph should center on one main idea, ensuring a logical flow throughout your essay.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a step back and revise your essay with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph contributes to a deeper understanding of your journey and aspirations. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to gain additional perspectives on clarity and impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes that can weaken your essay:

• Avoid vague statements and empty passion. Provide concrete examples that illustrate your points.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and decisions.
• Do not include invented facts or experiences. Authenticity is key.
• Refrain from starting with clichés or overly broad statements. Begin with a compelling moment that sets the tone for your essay.