How to Write Your Essay for the Grace & Good Fortune Bursary

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into the four material buckets: Background, Achievements, The Gap, and Personality.

• Background: Reflect on your life experiences that have influenced your path as a single mother. Consider challenges you have faced and how they have motivated your educational pursuits.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic or personal life. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your success, such as degrees earned, courses completed, or skills developed.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you currently lack in terms of education or resources. Explain how this bursary will help bridge that gap, enabling you to further your studies and improve your circumstances.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values, resilience, and commitment to your goals. This humanizing detail will help the committee connect with your story.

Outline Your Essay

Once you have gathered your thoughts, create a structured outline. Each section should have a clear focus:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid moment or scene that encapsulates your journey as a single mother. Avoid generic statements and engage the reader immediately.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure that each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a logical flow.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey, emphasizing how the bursary will impact your future. Answer the “So what?” question by detailing your commitment to using this opportunity for positive change.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Each sentence should contribute to your narrative, showcasing your achievements and aspirations clearly. Use concrete examples to back up your claims and provide evidence of your determination and resilience.

Revision & “So What?”

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. When you return, read your essay with fresh eyes. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that every section answers the “So what?” question—why your experiences matter and how they relate to your future goals.

Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common pitfalls:

• Avoid starting with clichés or generic statements.
• Steer clear of vague language; be specific about your experiences and achievements.
• Do not fabricate details or exaggerate your accomplishments; authenticity is key.
• Ensure your essay remains focused and cohesive, avoiding tangents that dilute your message.