How to Craft Your Essay for the Harriet Hinton Bretz Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, experiences, and influences that have shaped who you are today. What challenges have you faced, and how have they informed your educational path?
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Include metrics or outcomes that demonstrate your impact, such as grades, projects, or leadership roles.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or career and how this scholarship can bridge that gap. Be specific about the skills or knowledge you hope to gain.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that showcase your values, interests, and motivations. This helps the committee see you as a person, not just a candidate.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Open with a specific moment or anecdote that captures your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets, ensuring clarity and flow between sections.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your experiences and articulate how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your future goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice and clear language throughout your essay. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead of saying you are “passionate,” demonstrate your enthusiasm through specific examples and outcomes. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section, reflecting on the significance of your experiences.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. This will give you fresh eyes. Focus on clarity, coherence, and impact. Ask yourself if each paragraph adds value to your narrative. Does it clearly connect your background, achievements, and aspirations? Ensure your conclusion ties back to your opening, reinforcing your journey.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid starting with clichéd phrases or general statements.
• Do not exaggerate or fabricate experiences; authenticity is key.
• Steer clear of passive voice where an active subject exists.
• Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.