Institute Hispanic Latino Theology Ministry Endowed Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Gather material by reflecting on four key areas:

• Background: What experiences have shaped your identity and aspirations? Consider cultural, social, and educational influences.
• Achievements: Identify significant accomplishments in your academic, professional, or community life. Use metrics and specific outcomes to highlight your impact.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack in your education or experience and how this scholarship will help you bridge that gap. Be specific about your goals and how they align with the scholarship's objectives.
• Personality: Share personal anecdotes that reveal your character, values, and motivations. This adds a human element to your application.

Outline Your Essay

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

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or anecdote that encapsulates your journey.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate sections to each of the four buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus and contributes to your overall narrative.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and articulate your future aspirations, emphasizing the role of the scholarship in achieving those goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

Use an active voice and be specific in your language. Avoid generic statements; instead, illustrate your points with concrete examples and reflections. Each paragraph should focus on one idea and seamlessly transition to the next, maintaining a cohesive narrative throughout.

Revision and the “So What?” Factor

After drafting, take a break before revising to gain fresh perspective. As you edit, ask yourself the “So what?” question for each section. Ensure that your reflections on experiences and achievements clearly articulate their significance and how they relate to your future goals.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following pitfalls:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements. Instead, focus on specific experiences that demonstrate your points.
• Do not fabricate facts or embellish achievements. Authenticity is crucial in scholarship applications.
• Stay clear of passive voice; use active constructions to make your writing more engaging.
• Ensure that each paragraph serves a purpose and contributes to the overall narrative.