How to Write Your Essay for the Jim Kupferschmidt Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling essay, gather material across four key areas:

• Background: Consider your upbringing, educational experiences, and any challenges you have faced. What experiences have shaped your desire to pursue education at Pima Community College?
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments that demonstrate your dedication and capability. Use metrics where possible—such as grades, projects completed, or leadership roles held—to quantify your success.
• The Gap: Reflect on what you currently lack that this scholarship will help you overcome. How will receiving this scholarship enable you to further your education and career goals?
• Personality: Think about the personal qualities and values that define you. What unique perspectives do you bring, and how do they influence your educational journey?

Creating an Outline

Organize your thoughts into a structured outline. A typical structure might include:

1. Introduction: Start with a concrete moment or experience that illustrates your motivation.
2. Body Paragraphs: Dedicate each paragraph to one of the four buckets. Ensure each paragraph has a clear focus and flows logically to the next.
3. Conclusion: Reflect on how the scholarship will impact your future and reiterate your commitment to your educational and career goals.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid vague statements and clichés. Instead of saying, “I have always wanted to help my community,” provide a specific instance where you made a difference. This will engage the committee and showcase your real-world impact.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting your essay, take a step back and review it critically. Ask yourself, “So what?” for each section. What insights or reflections have you shared? Ensure your essay not only tells your story but also conveys why it matters to your future and the community.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of the following common mistakes:

• Clichés: Avoid overused phrases and generalizations that do not add value to your narrative.
• Lack of Specificity: Ensure your examples are detailed and quantifiable. Vague statements weaken your argument.
• Passive Voice: Use active voice to create stronger, more engaging sentences.
• Invented Facts: Stick to your true experiences and achievements. Fabricating details can undermine your credibility.