How to Write Your Essay for the Harold A Manker Fund Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four material buckets to structure your essay effectively:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, including experiences that have shaped your educational journey. Consider family influences, significant events, or challenges you have faced.
• Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Use specific metrics or examples, such as awards received, leadership roles, or projects completed, to demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education and why this scholarship is essential for your future studies. Explain how the funding will help you achieve your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. This humanizing detail can make your application memorable.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay with a clear outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Each section of your essay should correspond to one of the four buckets, ensuring a logical flow. Conclude with a strong closing statement that reiterates your commitment and the significance of the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your experiences and insights. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are passionate about your field, show this through specific examples of your engagement and achievements. Open with a concrete moment or a vivid scene to captivate your audience right from the start.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take time to revise. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights have you gained, and why do they matter? Ensure that your essay reflects not only your journey but also your aspirations and the impact you hope to make. Seek feedback from peers or mentors to refine your message.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes in scholarship essays:

• Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés.
• Steer clear of vague language; be specific about your achievements and goals.
• Do not fabricate experiences or achievements; authenticity is crucial.
• Ensure that your essay is well-organized and free of grammatical errors.