Crafting Your Essay for the Hubert D. Harris Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key areas:

• Background: Identify experiences that have shaped your interest in national defense. This could include educational pursuits, family influences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities. Use metrics where possible—such as projects completed, leadership roles held, or awards received—to provide concrete evidence of your contributions.
• The Gap: Reflect on areas where further study is crucial for your development. Articulate why this scholarship is essential for bridging that gap, linking your needs to the scholarship’s goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that illustrate your values and character. This could include challenges you’ve faced and how they’ve influenced your perspective on national defense.

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay logically to guide the reader through your narrative. A typical outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or experience that captures your connection to national defense.
2. Background Section: Discuss formative experiences that led you to this field.
3. Achievements Section: Detail your relevant accomplishments and their impact.
4. Gap Section: Explain what you seek to learn and how this scholarship will help.
5. Personality Section: Share personal insights that convey your dedication and uniqueness.
6. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express your commitment to making an impact in the field.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, aim for an active voice that engages the reader. Avoid generic statements; instead, focus on specific instances that illustrate your points. Use clear and concise language to convey your ideas effectively, ensuring each paragraph centers on a single theme.

Revision & “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and review your essay critically. Ask yourself: What insights have I shared? How do my experiences connect to the scholarship’s mission? Ensure that each section reflects your growth and potential impact. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements that do not provide depth.
• Do not use passive voice where an active subject exists; keep your writing dynamic.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable.