How to Write a Winning Essay for the INFLUENCE Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts by focusing on four key areas:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your interest in real estate? Consider family influences, personal experiences, or community involvement.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments related to your academic and extracurricular pursuits. Use metrics or outcomes where possible, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience that this scholarship could help address. Be specific about how further study will enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes and values. What drives you? What unique perspectives do you bring to the field of real estate?

Outline Your Essay

Structure your essay to guide the reader through your narrative logically. A potential outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your passion for real estate.
2. Background: Discuss formative experiences that led you to this field.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments that demonstrate your readiness for further study.
4. The Gap: Explain how the scholarship will help you bridge the gap in your education.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your future goals and the impact you wish to make in real estate.

Drafting Voice and Style

As you draft, maintain an active voice and focus on clarity. Avoid vague statements; instead, use specific examples to illustrate your points. Each paragraph should convey a single idea and transition smoothly to the next, reinforcing the overall narrative. Remember to answer the question, “So what?” in each section to emphasize the significance of your experiences and aspirations.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for areas where you can enhance clarity and specificity. Ensure each section contributes to your overall message. Ask yourself what changed in you through these experiences and why it matters for your future in real estate. This reflection will strengthen your essay's impact.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be aware of common mistakes that can undermine your essay:

• Avoid cliché openers and filler phrases that do not add value.
• Steer clear of vague expressions of passion without supporting evidence.
• Do not resort to passive voice; always highlight your actions and contributions.
• Ensure all facts and experiences are truthful and verifiable.