How to Write Your Essay for the Heather Colleen Aldous Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material for your essay by reflecting on the following four buckets:

• Background: What experiences or challenges have shaped who you are today? Think about family, community, and educational influences.
• Achievements: List your notable accomplishments, both academic and extracurricular. Quantify these where possible—include specific metrics or responsibilities that demonstrate your impact.
• The Gap: Identify what you feel is lacking in your current education or experience that further study will address. Be specific about how the scholarship will help bridge this gap.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your values, interests, and character. This is your chance to humanize your application.

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a coherent outline. Start with an engaging introduction that draws the reader in. Each section should flow logically from one to the next, focusing on one idea per paragraph. Consider using the STAR method to structure your achievements and challenges:

1. Situation: Describe the context of your experience.
2. Task: Explain your responsibilities or objectives.
3. Action: Detail the steps you took to address the situation.
4. Result: Share the outcomes, emphasizing what you learned.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice. Use specific details and avoid vague statements. Start with a concrete moment or scene rather than a thesis statement. This approach will engage the reader and provide a vivid picture of your experiences. Throughout your writing, reflect on the significance of your experiences—answer the question “So what?” in every section.

Revision & “So What?”

Once you have a draft, take a step back and revise. Look for clarity and coherence in your argument. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to the overall narrative. Ask yourself if each section effectively answers the prompt and reflects your journey. Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements. Each phrase should add value to your narrative.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists. This will make your writing stronger and more engaging.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without supporting evidence. Show your commitment through specific examples.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship essays.