How to Write Your Essay for the Hospitality Futures Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Material Buckets

Organize your thoughts by exploring the four material buckets:

• Background: Identify key experiences that have shaped your interest in hospitality. Consider family influences, early jobs, or volunteer experiences.
• Achievements: List accomplishments relevant to your field. Include metrics where possible, such as leadership roles or projects that had measurable outcomes.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you lack in your current education or experience and how this scholarship will bridge that gap. Be specific about your educational goals and how they relate to your career aspirations.
• Personality: Think about personal traits that make you a suitable candidate. Include anecdotes that highlight your values and character.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. A typical outline might look like this:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or scene that reflects your passion for hospitality.
2. Background: Discuss your formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational needs and how the scholarship fits.
5. Personality: Share a personal story that illustrates your commitment to the field.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your future and the impact of receiving the scholarship.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid jargon and bureaucratic language. Each paragraph should convey one idea, and transitions should logically connect your thoughts. Remember to reflect on your experiences and answer the “So what?” question—what have you learned, and why does it matter?

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and impact. Ensure that each section contributes to a coherent narrative. Ask yourself if your essay effectively communicates your journey and aspirations. Does it reflect your personality and commitment to hospitality?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid cliché openers and vague statements about passion.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject exists.
• Stay clear of superlatives without evidence to back them up.
• Do not invent facts or embellish experiences.