How to Craft Your Essay for the Howard A. Schmidt Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, brainstorm ideas across the four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your journey into information systems security. What experiences, personal or academic, have influenced your decision to pursue this field?
• Achievements: Identify key accomplishments related to your studies or projects in information systems. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your impact.
• The Gap: Consider what you currently lack in your education or experiences. What skills or knowledge do you hope to gain through further study that will enhance your ability to contribute to the field?
• Personality: Share humanizing details that reflect your values and motivations. What drives you to excel in information systems security?

Outline Your Essay

Creating an outline will help organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow. A suggested structure could be:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or experience that highlights your interest in information systems security.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate one paragraph to each of the four buckets. Ensure you connect your background, achievements, the gap, and personality to create a cohesive narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals and make a positive impact in the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft your essay, aim for an active voice and clear, concise language. Avoid clichés and ensure every statement is backed by specific examples. Instead of stating your passion for information systems security, demonstrate it through your experiences and aspirations. Remember to answer the “So what?” question in each section—what does your experience mean for your future contributions to the field?

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and engagement in your writing. Ask yourself if each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to your overall narrative. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, focusing on whether your essay effectively communicates your journey and aspirations in information systems security.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Using Clichés: Avoid overused phrases that dilute your message.
• Vagueness: Ensure your claims are supported by specific examples and metrics.
• Neglecting the Audience: Keep in mind the scholarship committee’s focus on education in information systems security; tailor your essay accordingly.