How to Write Your Essay for the Harold W. Schmid Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across these four categories:

• Background: Reflect on your personal history, family influences, and significant life events that have shaped you. Think about moments that sparked your interest in education or community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular activities. Use specific metrics or outcomes to quantify your contributions, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship will help you address. Be honest about your challenges and articulate how further study will bridge these gaps.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values, interests, and what makes you unique. This could include hobbies, volunteer work, or personal philosophies.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a clear outline. Start with a strong opening that draws the reader in with a specific moment or experience. Follow this with sections that address each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative. Conclude with a reflection on your journey and how the scholarship will empower you to make a difference.

Drafting Your Voice

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Avoid clichés and instead focus on authentic storytelling. Each paragraph should convey a single idea, with transitions that logically connect your thoughts. Remember to reflect on your experiences and answer the “So what?” question—why does your story matter?

Revision and “So What?”

Once you have a complete draft, take a break before revising. Read through your essay with fresh eyes, checking for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ensure that each section contributes to your overall message and that your reflections are meaningful. Ask yourself if your essay clearly articulates your aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls as you write:

• Avoid vague statements that lack evidence. Instead of saying you are passionate, illustrate your passion with specific examples.
• Steer clear of passive voice. Use active constructions to make your writing more engaging.
• Do not rely on generic openers. Start with a vivid scene or moment that captures your reader's attention.
• Ensure all information is factual and relevant. Avoid inventing details or embellishing your achievements.