How to Craft Your Essay for the Gilbert Ward Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas to create a well-rounded narrative:

• Background: Reflect on your educational journey and personal experiences that have shaped your interest in hydrology or hydraulics. Consider significant moments, challenges, or influences that led you to this field.
• Achievements: List your accomplishments related to your studies or extracurricular activities. Focus on metrics, leadership roles, and specific outcomes that demonstrate your skills and commitment to the field.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your knowledge or experience that further study will address. Be honest about your aspirations and how this scholarship will help bridge that gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and motivations. This is your chance to humanize your application and connect with the committee on a personal level.

Outline Your Essay

Creating a structured outline will help you maintain clarity and focus throughout your essay. Consider the following structure:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or in-scene description that draws the reader in. Clearly state your interest in hydrology or hydraulics.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four material buckets. Use the STAR method to detail specific achievements or challenges, ensuring each paragraph has a clear takeaway.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how your experiences have prepared you for future challenges and how the scholarship will enable you to make a meaningful impact in your field.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your actions and impact. Avoid clichés and ensure your writing is precise and reflective. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea, with logical transitions that guide the reader through your narrative. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in every section, demonstrating why your experiences matter.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising to gain a fresh perspective. During revision, check for clarity, coherence, and emotional resonance. Ensure that each section contributes to your overall narrative and reinforces your suitability for the scholarship. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to refine your essay further.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid vague statements about your passion without supporting details.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your role in achievements.
• Do not include fabricated facts or exaggerations about your experiences.
• Refrain from using clichés or generic phrases that dilute your unique voice.