How to Craft Your Essay for the Jack and Irene Batjer Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, consider the following four material buckets:

• Background: Reflect on your upbringing and the experiences that have shaped your values and ambitions. Consider key moments that influenced your decision to pursue higher education.
• Achievements: List significant accomplishments in your academic and extracurricular life. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your contributions, such as leadership roles, projects completed, or awards received.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in terms of skills or resources that further education will help you address. Clearly articulate why this scholarship is essential for bridging that gap.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your character and values. This could include challenges you’ve overcome or moments that inspired your commitment to your field of study.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure a logical flow of ideas. A suggested outline might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a vivid scene or moment that encapsulates your journey.
2. Background: Discuss your upbringing and formative experiences.
3. Achievements: Highlight your key accomplishments and what they signify.
4. The Gap: Explain your educational and professional aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your journey and express gratitude for the opportunity to apply.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting your essay, use an active voice to convey your experiences and insights. Avoid generic statements and focus on specific details that illustrate your points. Ensure each paragraph centers around a single idea, supporting your overall narrative without unnecessary tangents.

Revision and “So What?”

After completing your draft, review it with a critical eye. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. Ensure that every paragraph contributes meaningfully to your narrative and demonstrates your growth and future potential. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and vague statements that lack specific examples.
• Do not use passive voice when an active subject can be identified.
• Steer clear of bureaucratic language that obscures your message.
• Ensure all facts and experiences shared are truthful and verifiable.